# Madonna returns to VMAs after 23 years

> The Queen of Pop will open the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on September 27, marking her first performance at the show since 2003.
- Title: Madonna returns to VMAs after 23 years · Rolling Stone
- Summary: The Queen of Pop will open the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on September 27, marking her first performance at the show since 2003. Madonna is performing at…
- Keywords: madonna, mtv video music awards, vmas, 2026, performance, queen of pop, confessions ii, music awards, returns, years, Rolling Stone
- Source: Rolling Stone — https://rollingstone.com/music/music-news/2026-mtv-vmas-will-open-with-madonna-1235627673
- Author: Larisha Paul
- Published: 2026-09-16T19:47:51+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: madonna, mtv video music awards, vmas, 2026, performance, queen of pop, confessions ii, music awards
## Madonna returns to VMAs stage
The Queen of Pop will perform at the MTV Video Music Awards on September 27, 2026, her first time taking the stage at the show in 23 years.
## Opening the show like 2003
Madonna will open the night, just as she did at the 2003 VMAs. Her latest album Confessions II follows 2005's Confessions on a Dance Floor.
## Historic presence at the VMAs
Madonna has been part of the VMAs since performing 'Like a Virgin' at the very first show in 1984. She became the first woman to receive the Video Vanguard Award in 1986.
## 11 nominations this year
Madonna earned nominations across 11 categories at the 2026 VMAs, the most of any artist. Her nods include Artist of the Year, Video of the Year, and Best Collaboration for 'Bring Your Love' with Sabrina Carpenter.
## First win in 27 years possible
This year could bring Madonna her first VMAs win in 27 years. She's competing in major categories including Artist of the Year and Video of the Year.
## Key takeaway

Madonna is performing at the VMAs for the first time in 23 years, opening the show just like she did in 2003.