Charli XCX

The MTV Video Music Awards red carpet drew a wave of star power, with Taylor Swift and Charli XCX among the biggest names turning out for the ceremony. Coverage focused on the fashion and appearances of pop's leading figures as the awards night got under way, with fans following the event closely.

Madonna opened the MTV Video Music Awards, appearing on stage alongside Sabrina Carpenter and Charli xcx, with Sombr, Debi Mazar and other guests also featured in the show's opening. The pairing of the pop icon with two of today's biggest young stars made for one of the night's most talked-about moments.

Madonna is set to open the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, performing alongside Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX. The pairing of pop's most enduring icon with two of the biggest current names in music is being billed as a generational handoff moment for the ceremony. Fans are already speculating about what the joint performance will look like ahead of the show.

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards delivered a star-studded night, with Madonna, Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX teaming up for the opening performance. BLACKPINK's Lisa became the first K-pop solo artist to win Best Pop, tearing up during her acceptance speech. Nirvana's Dave Grohl, Krist Novoselic and Pat Smear reunited to accept the Video Vanguard Award, while Raye performed "Where Is My Husband!" and producers promised a fast-paced show.