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MTV is recognised as a historical gatekeeper of pop culture, having cemented defining moments like Michael Jackson’s “Billie Jean” video premiere and Britney Spears’ “I’m A Slave 4 U” performance. But in 2025, MTV shut down several of its channels known for broadcasting videos that were recognised at the Video Music Awards (VMAs). Now, the MTV VMAs celebrate artists based on their streaming numbers and cultural impact. The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards were held on September 27 at Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater. Taylor Swift, Sienna Spiro, and Madonna received major recognition at this year’s VMAs. Here is a quick recap:

TAYLOR SWIFT

With three new wins, Taylor Swift is setting new records at the 2026 VMAs. Swift, who has 104M+ Spotify listeners, took home Video of the Year for “The Fate of Ophelia.” This song spent ten weeks at No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Swift dedicated this award to the late Dolly Parton, undisputed Queen of Country. Swift won Best Direction for “Opalite”, her 14th song to land at No.1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Taylor Swift also received the inaugural MTV VMA Artist Director Honor for her work as a producer. With 33 awards, Swift has become the most-awarded artist in VMA history. She set a record for the most Video of the Year wins, with 6 in this category.

“And lastly, but most importantly, I want to thank and dedicate this award to one person without whom just this wouldn’t be happening. And that person is the ultimate showgirl, Dolly Parton. […] And she– man, she handled this thing with such grace and joy and love and gratitude for the fact that she got to do this,” Taylor Swift said.

MADONNA

Madonna, who has 54M+ Spotify listeners, is widely recognised as the Queen of Pop. With 13 VMA nominations, she was the leading nominee. But she also sparked fan concerns, as some noted that she looked unwell and was carried onstage by her dancers. Madonna showed resilience, taking home seven VMA awards including Artist of the Year and Best Collaboration for “Bring Your Love” with Sabrina Carpenter, and Best Album for Confessions II. Her Confessions II – The Film project won five VMA awards: Best Long Form Video, Best Album, Best Cinematography, and Best Choreography. After winning the Best Collaboration award, Madonna shared how she got connected with Sabrina Carpenter.

“I would like to briefly say how this collaboration came about. Everybody who knows me knows how impatient I am. And when five days passed and I still didn’t get connected with Sabrina and didn’t hear back from her about whether she wanted to do a song with me– Five days, I DM’d her. Yeah… And this is a true story. She answered me back, and I don’t know, within weeks, we were in the studio together. It was fabulous,” Madonna shared.

SIENNA SPIRO

With 32M+ Spotify listeners, British singer-songwriter Sienna Spiro is emerging as a household name. Spiro performed “Great Expectations” with technical vocal runs, strong presence, and lyrical artistry. Spiro also took home the VMA for Best New Artist! Spiro’s debut album, Visitor, is charting globally, reaching No. 2 on Billboard’s UK Albums Chart. This record also debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200. Spiro is a top contender for Best New Artist at the 2027 GRAMMYs. More updates to come.

“I didn’t think this would happen, so I just have to say thank you so much. Thank you to the fans and the people that voted for me. I love you.I can’t believe this. Thank you so much to my team. Thank you to the people at Capitol. Thank you to the incredible women around me. Miriam, Talia, my mum, my sister. I don’t even know. Thank you. I actually can’t believe this. Thank you so much. Thank you,” Sienna Spiro said.

Did you watch the 2026 MTV VMAs? Who do you think was snubbed this year? Do you think the MTV name should still be used for the VMAs? Tell us in the comments!