What You Didn't See on TV

Taylor Swift and Madonna dominated the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards , and they also offered some fun behind-the-scenes moments that TV viewers at home didn’t see during the live broadcast.

Below, see what they - and others - did when the cameras weren’t rolling on Sunday night.

Madonna not only ruled the night with her opening performance and several wins, but she also seemed to be the most popular photo opp. The star sat center front row during the show and was spotted in chats (and taking pics) with Taylor Swift, Julia Garner and Charli xcx after skipping the red carpet earlier in the night. Related Stories Music Madonna Opens 2026 VMAs With Sabrina Carpenter and Charli XCX TV MTV VMAs Begin on Time in L.A., But Football Delays the Start of the Show on TV