VMAs Viewers React as Show Gets Late Start Due to Delayed Cowboys vs. Ravens Game: ‘Beyond Frustrating’

The 2026 VMAs suffered a delayed start due to the Baltimore Ravens vs. Dallas Cowboys game running late, causing a 22-minute gap in the broadcast. Despite the delay, the ceremony proceeded as scheduled in person at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. Viewers at home, however, were met with the final moments of the NFL match, which appeared to be nearing overtime as the Texas team was poised to score a field goal that would have tied the score at 34-31.

The VMAs later took off 22 minutes after the football game ended, with Madonna's opening performance featuring cameos from Sabrina Carpenter, Charli xcx, sombr, Julia Garner, and Seth Rogen. Viewers on social media expressed frustration and confusion over the late start, with some considering cancelling their Paramount+ subscriptions.

Despite the delay, the broadcast of the VMAs continued on as planned, marking what is set to be a memorable year with Taylor Swift, Nirvana, and numerous other nominated artists.