Pop icon Madonna is set to open the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday, September 27, marking her first live performance on the telecast in 23 years.

The appearance marks her fifth time opening the show, breaking out of a tie with Rihanna for the artist with the most opening performances in VMA history.

Her last VMA performance occurred in 2003 when she opened alongside Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Missy Elliott.

The announcement comes during a major year for the entertainer, who leads all 2026 VMA nominees with a career-high 11 nominations, including Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Song of the Year.

Her latest studio effort, Confessions II, earned her a 10th number-one record on the Billboard 200 chart in July.