?Best of VMAs’ Primetime Specials Will Relive the Most ‘Unforgettable,’ ‘Iconic’ Moments Ahead of 2026

Donnie Wahlberg and Vanessa Lachey will host the specials, which are warm-ups to this year's show.

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).

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.