MTV 40th VMAs Special Presentation

At the 40th MTV Video Music Awards on September 13, 2021, Madonna made a surprise appearance, opening the show with a special video and a live presentation. Her presence was especially symbolic — she also took the stage at the very first VMAs in 1984, cementing her role as one of the show’s defining icons. Four decades later, Madonna’s return underscored her enduring impact on both MTV and pop culture.