Nirvana will receive the Nirvana Video Vanguard Award at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards on September 27. The ceremony will air live on CBS at 7:30 p.m. ET and stream on MTV and Paramount+.

The broadcast will be simulcast on MTV and will be available worldwide on Paramount+ the day after the live show. The network announced the honor in a social‑media post, saying the award celebrates the band’s lasting influence.

The grunge act first stepped onto the VMA stage 34 years ago on September 9, 1992, marking a moment that reshaped music television. Founded by late frontman Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic, the group later added drummer Dave Grohl and released three studio albums: Bleach, Nevermind and In Utero.

“This day in 1992, Nirvana took to the VMAs stage for the first time – shaping music, culture, and MTV forever. Nirvana is our 2026 #VMAs Video Vanguard recipient!!! Join us as we celebrate Nirvana’s incredible legacy on Sunday, September 27 on @CBStv, @MTV, and streaming on @ParamountPlus,” the network wrote.

Madonna leads this year’s nomination slate with 11 nods, but the spotlight will shift to the legendary rock trio during the awards night.

Viewers can tune in Sunday night to watch the tribute and see the band’s impact honored on a global stage.