Madonna's Guest-Filled Opening Highlights a Mixed 2026 MTV VMAs
Pitchfork's recap of the 2026 MTV VMAs criticizes much of the ceremony while praising Madonna's elaborate opening medley. Madonna brought out Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX during a performance inspired by her Confessions II short film. The piece also notes Bruno Mars's dull segment and Adam Lambert's role in rescuing the night.
The 2026 VMAs recap, published Sept. 27 by Pitchfork writers Hattie Lindert and Walden Green, frames Madonna's opening as the ceremony's standout. At 68, she staged a Confessions II-inspired medley with Sabrina Carpenter on "Bring Your Love" and Charli XCX on a "Danceteria Afterhours" remix. The piece also mentions appearances evoking an earlier Madonna era and figures such as Julia Garner, Seth Rogen, and Debi Mazar.
Elsewhere, the review calls Bruno Mars's segment dull and credits Adam Lambert with salvaging the night. Kacey Musgraves performed Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You" with piano accompaniment, while the recap criticizes other performances and between-segment music choices. Madonna's history at the VMAs includes five prior performances, starting with the 1984 inaugural show.
The VMAs' mixed reception may shape how music fans and industry observers view the show's cultural relevance, especially if younger viewers see legacy acts like Madonna as more vital than current performances. Praise for Madonna and Adam Lambert could boost their standing, while criticism of Bruno Mars and other segments may affect artist reputations. The recap's focus on missed newer artists could influence conversations about awards-show booking and which musicians get mainstream exposure.