Madonna is heading back to the VMAs stage. The Queen of Pop is set to perform at tonight’s awards show for the first time since her infamous 2003 smooch with Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera, a 23-year gap that has fans buzzing. The Madonna VMAs performance marks her return to the show that has hosted some of her most iconic moments.
Back in 2003, Madonna opened the show with a medley of “Hollywood” and “Like a Virgin” before locking lips with Spears and Aguilera, a moment that instantly became VMA history. She has since delivered other memorable VMA performances, including “Like a Prayer” in 1989 and her 1990 rendition of “Vogue,” complete with Marie Antoinette-inspired costumes. Her return comes as she promotes new music and rides the momentum of a viral Coachella performance with Sabrina Carpenter earlier this year.
The 2026 VMAs air live tonight at 7:30 p.m. ET on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+. Taylor Swift is set to receive the inaugural Artist Director Honors, and Sombr will pay tribute to George Michael. Madonna’s performance slot has not been officially confirmed by the network, but sources say she is expected to close the show.
