Madonna and Sabrina Carpenter accepted the award for Best Collaboration at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday, marking Madonna’s first VMAs performance in 23 years. The duo performed their collaboration, Bring Your Love, during the ceremony, which was delayed due to an overrunning NFL game. Charli XCX later joined them for a performance of Danceteria.
Madonna comments on collaboration process spark discussion
During their acceptance speech, Madonna referenced the timeline of their collaboration, stating, “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’ed her.” The audience reacted as Carpenter defended her team, saying, “My team replies! Just so everybody knows, they do respond to people!” Carpenter added, “I respond faster, so direct line to me is always the best way to get in contact.”
Madonna later praised Carpenter’s professionalism, noting, “I love working with you because you are so professional, and in this day and age it's really hard to find professional people to work with. When I show up late, she shows up early, so it works out. And she has OCD and so do I.”
Performance draws mixed reactions from fans
Madonna’s VMAs return featured a high-energy performance of Bring Your Love, with Carpenter accompanying her on piano. The segment included choreography, a choir, and appearances from Seth Rogen, Sombr, and Julia Garner. Fans on social media criticized the performance as “unfocused,” with some questioning whether Madonna was lip-syncing. Others praised her stage presence and fashion, which included a Saint Laurent ensemble and latex attire.
The ceremony, hosted by Snoop Dogg, marked the VMAs’ return to the West Coast for the first time in nearly a decade. Taylor Swift was among the notable attendees on the red carpet, wearing a black halter bodysuit and silver draped skirt.
Representatives for Madonna and Carpenter have not responded to requests for further comment.