LGBTQ+ stars shine bright at the 2026 MTV VMA's
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The MTV Video Music Awards took place on Sunday, September 27, at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, and we are catching you up on the night's moments representing the queer community.
Madonna opens VMA's and takes home seven awards
Legendary performer Madonna returned to the 2026 VMAS to open the show alongside pop princesses Charli XCX and Sabrina Carpenter.
Her performance of “Danceteria Afterhours” featured plenty of famous faces, including Julia Garner, Seth Rogen, Sombr and ex-boyfriend Tony Ward.
@entertainmenttonight From Charli xcx to Julia Garner and Seth Rogen (?!), Madonna brought out countless special guests to help her open the 2026 MTV #VMAs. 🤩 #madonna #charlixcx #sethrogen #juliagarner #danceteria ♬ original sound - Entertainment Tonight
Dolly Parton Tribute brings fans to tears
Country music artist Kacey Musgraves paid special tribute to the late and great Dolly Parton. The performance had the audience misty-eyed while she crooned a piano rendition of Dolly's 1974 hit, “I Will Always Love You.”
The prominent LGBTQ+ ally passed suddenly on August 25 after a brief battle with cancer.
Taylor Swift later won video of the year for her single, “Ophelia” and dedicated the award to Parton, calling her “the ultimate showgirl.”
@kaceymusgraves Anything for our forever angel, @Dolly Parton ♬ original sound - kaceymusgraves
Honoring George Michael
Additionally, the ceremony paid tribute to British George Michael. Introducing the segment was country singer Orville Peck donning
Sombr opened up the tribute with a rendition of Faith and Father Figure before RAYE went into I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me). Teddy Swims continued the homage with Careless Whisper. Finally, Adam Lambert took it home with an electric performance of Freedom! ‘90 alongside MNEK, Saint Harison and MEEK.
Kehlani and Cardi B take home VMA for Best Hip-Hop
Openly queer singer Kehlani was among the LGBTQIA+ winners at this year’s awards, taking home Best Hip-Hop alongside Cardi B for their collaboration Safe.
The duo was up against music giants like Megan Thee Stallion, Travis Scott, Tyler, the Creator, and Don Toliver. It made VMA's history as the first all-female collaboration to win the category.