Confused Madonna, 68, forgets what her MTV VMA award is for before taking a swipe at Sabrina Carpenter's management

From the Newshound archive · first published 28 September 2026 · last updated 29 September 2026.

Madonna sparked concern among fans after appearing to forget why she was on stage at Sunday's MTV VMAs in Los Angeles, quipping 'I'm kind of unclear as to what this award is for?' while collecting the Best Dance prize alongside Charli XCX and Troye Sivan. The 68-year-old also drew gasps from the crowd by revealing she had to DM Sabrina Carpenter directly after her management failed to respond to a collaboration request for five days.

Carpenter hit back on the spot, telling the audience: 'My team replies — they do respond, but I respond faster.'

Madonna's earlier opening performance of 'Bring Your Love' and 'Danceteria Afterhours Remix' was branded 'utterly unfocused' by fans online.