LOS ANGELES — Madonna and Taylor Swift were among the biggest winners at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday night, Sept. 27, as some of the biggest names in music gathered at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles for one of the industry's biggest nights.
Madonna dominated the ceremony with seven Moon Person wins after entering the show as the leading nominee with 13 nods.
Her victories included three major onstage awards — Artist of the Year, Best Dance for _Confessions II – The Film_ and Best Collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter for their song “Bring Your Love.”
Her winning night also extended to several technical and social categories. _Confessions II – The Film_ won Best Cinematography, Best Choreography and Best Long Form Video, while Madonna's _Confessions II_ album was named Best Album.
Taylor Swift also enjoyed a major night. The singer, who entered the ceremony with 11 nominations and already holds the record for the most Moon Person wins, received the inaugural Artist Director Honors. She used the occasion to premiere her latest self-directed video for her new song “Patient Zero.”
Swift later returned to the stage to accept the final award of the night, winning Video of the Year for “The Fate of Ophelia.” She also won Best Direction for “Opalite.”
LISA took the first award of the evening, winning Best Pop for “Dream,” featuring Kentaro Sakaguchi. Sienna Spiro was named Best New Artist after fans voted throughout the live broadcast.
BTS was another major winner, taking home Song of the Year for “Swim,” Best K-Pop and Best Group. Bruno Mars won Best R&B for “I Just Might,” while Cardi B featuring Kehlani took Best Hip-Hop for “Safe.”
Olivia Rodrigo won Best Alternative for “the cure,” while Bad Bunny claimed Best Latin for “NUEVAYoL.” Ella Langley won Best Country for “Choosin’ Texas.”
Sabrina Carpenter added to her night with a Best Editing victory for “House Tour.” She also shared the Best Collaboration award with Madonna for “Bring Your Love.”
The ceremony, hosted by Snoop Dogg, featured performances and special tributes throughout the night.
Madonna opened the show, while Kacey Musgraves performed a tribute to Dolly Parton.
RAYE, SOMBR and Teddy Swims joined forces to honour George Michael, while Nirvana received the Video Vanguard Award.
LISA, RAYE, Spiro, Shaboozey, who performed both solo and with Gunna, and GENER8ION and Yung Lean were also among the performers.
The awards ceremony brought together established superstars and emerging artists, with Madonna's seven wins and Swift's major honours dominating the night's headlines.
