Madonna beats Taylor Swift in MTV awards showdown
Madonna emerges as the big winner at MTV's Video Music Awards, but Taylor Swift still broke records.
Madonna edged out Taylor Swift at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles, securing two more awards than her rival. Madonna won three trophies, including Artist of the Year, while Swift took home two, including Video of the Year for "The Fate of Ophelia." Madonna led the nominations for the first time in 28 years, her 13 nominations surpassing Swift's 11.
The show kicked off with a focus on arrivals, with stars arriving in style. Madonna, Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Ariana Grande, and other artists graced the red carpet. Madonna's opening act, her duet "Bring Your Love" with Sabrina Carpenter, won the Best Collaboration award. The night also saw a tribute to Nirvana, George Michael, and Dolly Parton, with Public Enemy's Chuck D paying tribute to the grunge icons.
Snoop Dogg hosted the show, promising a party like no other and introducing a special "sticky-icky-icky" for the winners. Madonna thanked her fans, including Taylor Swift, Shaboozey, Lisa, Bruno Mars, and Raye.
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