‘Best of VMAs’ Primetime Specials Will Relive the Most ‘Unforgettable,’ ‘Iconic’ Moments Ahead of 2026 Show: Watch Exclusive Clip

UPDATE (Sept.

11): Iconic Vanguard Performances , the first of two primetime specials leading up to the 2026 MTV VMAs, is set to air on Sunday, Sept.

13 (9:30 p.m.

ET/9:00 p.m.

PT) on CBS, and streaming on Paramount+ (Premium).

Hosted by Donnie Wahlberg, the special celebrates the artists who have received the Video Vanguard Award at the VMAs, from David Bowie, The Beatles and film director Richard Lester (the first recipients in 1984) to Mariah Carey (who received the honor in 2025).

Watch the exclusive clip above.

PREVIOUSLY (Sept.

3): CBS will air two new primetime specials to build anticipation for the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, which the network is carrying for the second year in a row.

Donnie Wahlberg will host Best of VMAs: Iconic Vanguard Performances on Sunday, Sept.

13.

Former MTV VJ Vanessa Lachey will host Best of VMAs: Unforgettable Moments on Sunday, Sept.

20.

Related Madonna Leads 2026 MTV VMA Nominations: Full List Madonna Comes Full-Circle as the Leading Nominee at 2026 MTV VMAs Who Should Win Video of the Year at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards? Vote! Both specials seem sure to include Madonna , who is the leading nominee for the 2026 VMAs, with 11 nods.