Pop star Madonna launched the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, California, marking her first televised performance at the ceremony in 23 years.
The singer opened the show with a performance of her number one song Bring your love alongside Sabrina Carpenter. The pair later won the award for Best Collaboration.
Anticipation was high at the Peacock Theater as the ceremony began. Madonna, who last performed on television at the VMAs 23 years ago, opened the event in a 1990s nightclub setting.
She and Carpenter wore black leather, tight corsets, lace, and sparkles as they recreated the stage chemistry they displayed at the Coachella festival several months earlier.
The opening set transitioned into the rhythms of Danceteria afterhours as English singer Charli XCX joined the stage. The performance transformed into an immersive theatrical show with neon lights and surprise cameo appearances by Hollywood actors Julia Garner, Seth Rogen, and her close friend Debi Mazar.
Live connection from Miami
Following the opening set, Bruno Mars delivered a special performance. The Hawaiian-born artist appeared on stage wearing a retro 1970s-style suit and a country hat.
Mars performed a live rendition of his track Dance with me. The set was broadcast live to the venue via a satellite link from Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, where Mars was performing as part of his The Romantic Tour.
Hard Rock Stadium is a major sports and entertainment venue in South Florida, while Mars is known for his retro stage presence and soul-infused pop music.
Showcases and award winners
British singer-songwriter RAYE performed her song Where is my husband! while wearing a high-fashion outfit. Later in the gala, fellow British artist Sienna Spiro delivered an intimate performance of her song Great expectations.
Spiro wore a minimalist dress that put full focus on her vocal range, drawing a long standing ovation from the audience. Hours later, Spiro won the award for Best New Artist.
LISA, a member of the South Korean girl group BLACKPINK, performed a choreographed routine in an urban-style outfit featuring sheer transparencies and metallic details.
The lineup of performers also included Shaboozey and rapper Gunna. French producer GENER8ION performed a live collaboration with Swedish rapper Yung Lean, bringing an alternative and dark style to the broadcast.
Tributes to country and pop icons
Country music singer Kacey Musgraves performed an acoustic tribute to country legend Dolly Parton. Musgraves wore a suit decorated with rhinestones and fringe to evoke classic country glamour.
The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards concluded with a joint tribute to the late British singer George Michael. The final performance brought together singers Teddy Swims, RAYE, sombr, and Adam Lambert.
The four vocalists performed together on a simple stage set to honor the legacy of Michael, closing the ceremony at the Peacock Theater.
