The MTV Video Music Awards return tonight for the 42nd annual awards ceremony, celebrating the best music videos of the year.
Hosted by three-time VMA winner Snoop Dogg, the ceremony airs live Sunday night from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, featuring performances by Madonna, Kacey Musgraves, Lisa, Sombr and more.
Madonna leads the nominations this year with 13 categories, tying Lady Gaga’s 2010 record for the most nominations in a year. She is followed by Taylor Swift (11), Sabrina Carpenter (nine) and Ariana Grande (eight) for earning the most nominations.
Tonight’s awards ceremony will honor Nirvana with the Video Vanguard Award, and Taylor Swift will receive the first MTV VMA Artist Director Honors, with her “Patient Zero” music video from A Showgirl’s Life: The Encore making its world premiere during the simulcast.
This year’s MTV VMA performances will include tributes to Dolly Parton and George Michael, marking 40 years since his first solo album. Faith.
With all of this and more expected for the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, read on to find out how to watch or stream the awards ceremony.
How can I watch the 2026 VMAs?
The 2026 VMAs will air live on Sunday, September 27 from 7:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. PT on CBS, simulcast on MTV and streaming on Paramount+ (Premium) in the United States. The show will be available worldwide the next day on Paramount+ and MTV.
Who is showing at the 2026 VMAs?
VMA presenters include some of the nominees and winners from this year’s past VMAs, as well as a survivor, a superhero, a scream queen and a Saturday evening live alum.
The lineup includes Alex Warren, Belmont Cameli, Brandon Sklenar, Charli xcx, Ciara Miller, David Corenswet, Ella Bright, Isabel May, Jeff Probst, Rachel Dratch, Teyana Taylor, Troye Sivan and Tyla.
Who will perform at the 2026 VMAs?
Returning to the VMA stage for her first performance in 23 years, Madonna will open the awards ceremony with some songs from Confessions IIpresented by Spotify.
Following Dolly Parton’s death at the age of 80 last month, Kacey Musgraves will pay tribute to the queen of country. Meanwhile, Raye, Sombr and Teddy Swims will team up for a tribute show directed by Adam Blackstone, celebrating 40 years of the late George Michaels’ career-defining album. Faith (1987).
Gener8ion & Yung Lean, Lisa, Shaboozey & Gunna and Sienna Spiro will also perform at the 2026 MTV VMAs.
For more information, visit MTV.com.
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