Start Time & How to Watch Live

The 2026 MTV VMAs are happening tonight, but fans can tune in early to watch the stars arrive on the red carpet.

CBS Los Angeles is hosting a special live red-carpet show ahead of the VMAs on Sunday (September 27), with coverage from the Peacock Theater in downtown Los Angeles.

So, what time does the 2026 MTV VMAs red carpet start, and how can you watch it live?

What Time Does the 2026 MTV VMAs Red Carpet Start?

The 2026 MTV VMAs red carpet special begins at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT.

CBS LA’s coverage will run for 90 minutes, ending at 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT, when the main awards show begins.

The red-carpet special will be hosted by Kalyna Astrinos and Sheba Turk from the Peacock Theater.

How to Watch the 2026 MTV VMAs Red Carpet Live

Fans across the U.S. can watch the 2026 MTV VMAs red-carpet special live on CBS News Los Angeles beginning at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT. The stream is available online through CBS News, while viewers in Los Angeles can also watch on KCAL.

The main VMAs ceremony begins immediately afterward at 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT.

How to Watch the 2026 MTV VMAs

The 2026 MTV Video Music Awards will air live on CBS and will also be simulcast on MTV.

Fans in the United States can also stream the show live on Paramount+ Premium.

Snoop Dogg is hosting this year’s ceremony, which will feature performances from Madonna, LISA, Kacey Musgraves, RAYE, Shaboozey, Teddy Swims and more.

Madonna will open the show with her first VMAs performance in more than 20 years, while Taylor Swift will debut her new “Patient Zero” music video during the ceremony,

Find out what time Taylor Swift‘s “Patient Zero” music video premieres and how to watch.

See the full list of 2026 MTV VMAs performers and presenters.

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