Madonna Opens MTV Video Music Awards With Sabrina Carpenter and Charli xcx, Plus Sombr, Debi Mazar and More

Madonna made a triumphant return to the VMAs stage this year, marking her first appearance at the ceremony in 23 years. The legendary singer kicked off the show with a special collaboration featuring Sabrina Carpenter, who performed their new single "Bring Your Love." To add a unique visual twist, bondage dancers were seen assisting Carpenter as steadicam operators, creating an unforgettable spectacle on stage.

Later in the performance, Madonna's vibrant energy continued as she brought Charli XCX onto the stage for their remix hit "Danceteria Afterhours." This remix was a fresh take on Madonna's iconic Confessions II track "Danceteria," offering a modern and energetic interpretation of the classic song.

The night was also filled with cameo appearances from various celebrities, including Julia Garner, Debi Mazar, Sombr, and Seth Rogen. Rogen was particularly memorable as he was seen smoking a joint during the event, adding a touch of humor to the glamorous evening.

Madonna's performance at the VMAs was a resounding success, as she currently holds the record for the most VMA nominations for any artist at this year's show. With a total of 13 nods, including prestigious categories like Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Album, Madonna's performance was a testament to her enduring influence and relevance in the music industry.

This was her third time leading the VMA nominations, following previous standout performances for "Ray of Light" and "Frozen" in 1998, and "Vogue" in 1990. Madonna last opened a VMAs show in 2003, where she shared the stage with Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera in a memorable medley performance, famously locking lips onstage.

The VMAs ceremony for Madonna in 2026 was a nostalgic trip down memory lane, as the iconic artist revisited her previous performances. In 1990, Madonna graced the stage in an 18th-century French-inspired setup, delivering her hit "Vogue." In 1984, she made musical history by headlining the very first VMAs, performing her legendary track "Like a Virgin" to captivate the audience.

These iconic moments serve as a reminder of Madonna's lasting impact on the music world and her ability to continually reinvent herself on the grandest of stages.