Taylor Swift unveils new video after breaking MTV VMAs record

Taylor Swift won the video of the year award as she became the most decorated artist in the history of the MTV Video Music Awards.

The 36-year-old, who was previously tied with Beyonce on 30 VMA gongs, took home the night’s top award for The Fate of Ophelia.

Swift also received the first award for artist director and best direction for Opalite.

Swift dedicated the artistic direction award to the “ultimate showgirl” Dolly Parton.

“I think we were all very lucky to share this planet with Dolly Parton for a time,” Swift said.

Swift also debuted the music video for her new song Patient Zero during the show, which was hosted by Snoop Dogg.

The video for the single – her first since marrying NFL star Travis Kelce – stars actors Colin Farrell and Dakota Johnson.

Madonna went into the night with the most nominations – 13 – and picked up artist of the year, best dance, best collaboration alongside Sabrina Carpenter for Bring Your Love and best cinematography and best choreography – both for Confessions II – the film.

Madonna also performed alongside Carpenter and Charli XCX, while British singer Raye took to the stage with a medley including I Will Overcome and Where Is My Husband.

Other performances on the night included tributes to Parton and George Michael.

British star PinkPantheress won best art direction alongside Sweden’s Zara Larsson for Stateside.

BTS picked up best group and song of the year for Swim, Olivia Rodrigo’s The Cure won best alternative and Nirvana were honoured with the Video Vanguard award.

Published: 28/09/2026 by Radio NewsHub