Madonna is set to take the stage as a performer at the MTV Video Music Awards for the first time in over 20 years today as she looks to add to her 20 career wins at the VMAs.The awards show also brings a milestone for Taylor Swift, who will be given the VMAs' first-ever Artist Director Honors, which organizers said recognizes artists "whose work behind the camera has expanded the possibilities of music video and advanced the art of visual storytelling." The new accolade guarantees that Swift, who's also nominated in 11 categories, will become the show's most-awarded artist, breaking the tie between her and Beyoncé, who each collected 30 Moon Persons as of 2024.(Neither added to their total in 2025.)Swift will also be debuting her new "Patient Zero" music video at the VMAs.Nirvana, meanwhile, will be this year's Video Vanguard Award recipient.What time do the 2026 VMAs start?The show starts at 7:30 p.m.
ET, 4:30 p.m.PT, on Sunday, Sept.
27.Who's hosting the 2026 VMAs? This year's show is being hosted by Snoop Dogg.The rapper known for hits like "Beautiful," "Drop It Like It's Hot" and "Gin and Juice" is no stranger to the VMAs stage, having first performed at the show in 1994 and winning three times during his career.
Where to watch the 2026 VMAsThe VMAs will be airing on CBS television stations (find your local station here) and on MTV.The show will also be streaming on Paramount+.
How to watch the VMAs red carpet See the stars arrive and check out the best looks from the red carpet in special coverage streaming live on CBS News Los Angeles starting at 6 p.m.ET, 3 p.m.
PT, ahead of the VMAs.Who are the VMA performers this year?Along with Madonna's highly anticipated return, the performances at this year's VMAs include a special tribute to Dolly Parton by Kacey Musgraves, who is nominated in the best country category.Here's a list of the VMA performers announced so far, in alphabetical order:GENER8IONGunnaLISAMadonnaKacey Mus...