2026 MTV VMAs highlights and performances

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards featured tributes, awards and broadcast delays tied to sports.

3 stories55 sourcesUpdated Sep 28, 2026

In this storyline:Dave Grohl George Michael Charli XCX Kurt Cobain

2026 MTV VMAs highlights and performances — Photo: University of Houston Digital Library / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)

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Key developments

Sep 28, 2026
The 2026 MTV VMAs broadcast started 20-22 minutes late after the Ravens beat the Cowboys 34-31.
11 sources on this →
Sep 28, 2026
RAYE, SOMBR and Teddy Swims honored George Michael at the 2026 MTV VMAs with performances of his hits.
24 sources on this →
Sep 28, 2026
Grohl, Novoselic and Smear accepted MTV's Video Vanguard Award from Chuck D on Sept. 27, 2026.
20 sources on this →

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Entertainment

Ravens-Cowboys Game Delays MTV VMAs Broadcast

The 2026 MTV VMAs broadcast started 20-22 minutes late after the Ravens beat the Cowboys 34-31; home viewers missed Madonna’s opening that the L.A. theater saw on time.

11 sources

Entertainment

VMAs Honor George Michael With Star-Studded Tribute

RAYE, SOMBR and Teddy Swims honored George Michael at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards with performances of his hits, including “Faith,” “Father Figure,” “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” and “Careless Whisper.” Adam Lambert made a surprise appearance to lead “Freedom! ’90,” celebrating Michael’s lasting influence and his history with the VMAs.

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Nirvana Members Reunite, Accept MTV Vanguard Award

Grohl, Novoselic and Smear accepted MTV's Video Vanguard Award from Chuck D on Sept. 27, 2026 in Los Angeles; Novoselic called Cobain "one of one" as Smear lit a cigarette. The band did not perform.

20 sources