The 2026 MTV VMAs Awards kicked off with a highly anticipated performance from Madonna on Sunday might. It was her first VMAs set since 2003, and included guest appearances by Sabrina Carpenter, Charli XCX, Debi Mazar, and more. The night also featured a George Michael tribute—with a perplexing lineup of Raye, Adam Lambert, Sombr, and Teddy Swims—as well as sets by Lisa, Yung Lean, and Shaboozey. You can check out the full rundown of performances below.
Head here for the full winners list and follow along with all of Pitchfork’s coverage of the 2026 VMAs.
Madonna
Joining Madonna for her medley was Carpenter on “Bring Your Love,” Charli for “Danceteria Afterhours,” and pop-up cameos by Sombr, Seth Rogen, Julia Garner, and more as Madge danced her way through a row of bathroom stalls and sinks. Madonna had 13 total nods at tonight’s awards show—the most of any artist.
Kacey Musgraves (Dolly Parton Tribute)
After a run of pop-leaning albums, Kacey Musgraves is back on her country beat—and just in time to give a faithful sendoff to the late Dolly Parton in tonight’s special tribute. Musgraves sang “I Will Always Love You” with full lungs and a gentle touch, bridging the gap between Parton’s original version and Whitney Houston’s famous cover.
