The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards aired live on Sunday, Sept. 27, with outlets describing it as one of the show's biggest lineups in years.
Madonna led all nominees with 13 nominations, according to CBS News, and made her first VMA performance in more than two decades, according to Variety.
Multiple outlets reported that Taylor Swift was making history at this year's show, and that the ceremony included the world premiere of a new Taylor Swift music video, according to Variety.
Variety also reported a Dolly Parton tribute performance from Kacey Musgraves as part of the show.
How each side covered it
Left
- Variety highlighted Madonna's first VMA performance in over two decades and a Dolly Parton tribute from Kacey Musgraves.
- Variety reported the world premiere of a new Taylor Swift music video during the show.
- CBS News reported Madonna received 13 nominations, the most of any nominee.
- Coverage included streaming and viewing guidance for the ceremony.
“Madonna’s first VMA performance in more than two decades, a Dolly Parton tribute from Kacey Musgraves and the world premiere of a new Taylor Swift music video” — Variety
Center
- NewsNation reported on Taylor Swift making history and Madonna leading the nominations, alongside how-to-watch information.
“The MTV VMAs are here with Taylor Swift making history and Madonna leading the nods: How to watch” — NewsNation
Right
- Breitbart reported on Taylor Swift making history and Madonna leading the nominations, alongside how-to-watch information.
“The MTV VMAs are here with Taylor Swift making history and Madonna leading the nods: How to watch” — Breitbart
Questions readers ask
When did the 2026 MTV VMAs air?
The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards aired live on Sunday, Sept. 27.
How many nominations did Madonna receive?
Madonna received 13 nominations, the most of any nominee at the 2026 VMAs, according to CBS News.
What made Madonna's appearance notable?
According to Variety, Madonna's performance was her first at the VMAs in more than two decades.
What did Taylor Swift do at the show?
Multiple outlets reported Taylor Swift was making history at the 2026 VMAs, and Variety reported the show featured the world premiere of a new Taylor Swift music video.
Were there other notable performances?
Variety reported Kacey Musgraves performed a tribute to Dolly Parton during the show.
Sources · 7 outlet reports
- Associated PressLeft-leaningThe MTV VMAs are here with Taylor Swift making history and Madonna leading the nods: How to watch
- CBS NewsLeft-leaningMadonna set to perform at the 2026 VMAs today. Here's what to know and how to watch this year's MTV awards.
- VarietyLeft-leaningHow to Stream the VMAs Live Online
- NewsNationCenterThe MTV VMAs are here with Taylor Swift making history and Madonna leading the nods: How to watch
- BreitbartRight-leaningThe MTV VMAs are here with Taylor Swift making history and Madonna leading the nods: How to watch
- New York PostRight-leaningMadonna’s most iconic VMAs looks through the years
- The Washington TimesRight-leaningThe MTV VMAs are here with Taylor Swift making history and Madonna leading the nods: How to watch