The Vibe Check
The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards are finally here, and honestly? The energy is already immaculate. We’re heading to the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles tonight, Sept. 27, where the one and only Snoop Dogg is taking the stage as our host. Real talk: if you’re still trying to remember who’s nominated, let’s get you caught up because the competition is highkey stacked.
The Heavy Hitters
Madonna is coming in hot, opening the show with her first VMAs performance in 23 years, and she’s leading the pack with 13 nominations. Taylor Swift isn’t far behind with 11 nods and has already secured her spot in history as the first-ever recipient of the Artist Director Honors. Plus, the Swifties are vibrating with excitement for the drop of her new "Patient Zero" music video.
Other legends and icons snagging nominations include Sabrina Carpenter (9), Ariana Grande (8), and Bruno Mars (6). The list goes on with PinkPantheress, Zara Larsson, Charli xcx, and many more. Also, major W for Nirvana, who will be honored with the Video Vanguard Award.
Fashion Memory Lane
While we’re all refreshing our feeds waiting for tonight’s red carpet looks to break the internet, it’s only right to pay respects to the GOATs of VMA fashion. From Lady Gaga’s iconic 2010 meat dress—which she confirmed to British Vogue actually smelled like meat—to Miley Cyrus’s 2015 crystal Versace "nude illusion" moment, the VMA red carpet is basically the main character of pop culture. Whether it’s 90s lilac pasties or 2022’s feathered madness, we’ve seen it all.
Why it matters
The VMAs are the ultimate cultural barometer for music and fashion. Tonight’s show promises to continue that legacy, bridging the gap between historical icons like Madonna and the current generation of superstars redefining what it means to be a pop cultural force.
