Ariana Grande was missing from the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on September 27 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles, and it wasn’t an accident. The singer led the night with eight nominations, including Video of the Year and Best Artist for“Hate That I Made You Love Me,”but chose to stay home as part of the public break she announced back in August.
That break wasn’t a knee-jerk reaction to the noise. Speaking to fans during her Eternal Sunshine Tour, Grande explained that the decision was planned quietly a long time ago and came from a thoughtful and empowered place. She also withdrew from the West End revival of Sunday in the Park With George, where she was set to star alongside her Wicked costar Jonathan Bailey.
Her absence puts a spotlight on something a lot of fans have been talking about: the constant online commentary about her appearance and weight. Eight nominations prove the music is still landing. Staying home proves she’s choosing her own terms. So we want to hear from you: if you were up for eight awards, would you show up or sit this one out? Tell us in the comments.
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.