MTV has officially announced the full lineup of presenters, performers, and honorees slated to take the stage for the 2026 Video Music Awards on Sunday night, September 27.
Hip-hop pioneer Snoop Dogg will helm the broadcast as host. The show will air live coast-to-coast from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. ET across CBS, MTV, and Paramount+.
The evening will feature several major milestones. Taylor Swift will accept the inaugural MTV VMA Artist Director Honors in recognition of her self-directed music videos and visual albums, while also holding the world premiere of her new “Patient Zero” music video during the broadcast. Meanwhile, pop legend Madonna is set to open the show, marking her first VMA performance in 23 years. Madonna also enters the night as the most-nominated artist of the ceremony.
Rock icons Nirvana will be honored with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, recognizing their enduring legacy and impact on visual music culture.
The network confirmed an eclectic roster of presenters for the evening, spanning television, film, and music:
- Alex Warren
- Belmont Cameli
- Brandon Sklenar
- Charli xcx
- Ciara Miller
- David Corenswet
- Ella Bright
- Isabel May
- Jeff Probst
- Rachel Dratch
- Teyana Taylor
- Troye Sivan
- Tyla
TV fans will notably spot Off Campus co-stars Belmont Cameli and Ella Bright presenting together on stage fresh off wrapping production on the second season of their hit series.
The performance mainstage will host a wide array of genres and international stars:
- Madonna (Opening Performance)
- Sienna Spiro
- Lisa
- Raye
- Shaboozey featuring Gunna
- Gener8ion featuring Yung Lean
The broadcast will also feature two star-studded musical tributes. Country icon Kacey Musgraves will take the stage for a dedicated tribute to Dolly Parton. Additionally, a special tribute honoring the musical legacy of George Michael will feature collaborative performances by Raye, Sombr, and Teddy Swims.
