There’s no better way to get a crowd excited than to bring out Madonna herself. Prior to Justin Bieber taking the stage, Madonna made a surprise appearance during the VMA’s opening. The appearance paid homage to MTV and the singer’s art and career, as 2022 will mark her 40th year as one of the biggest selling female artists in music history. In her own words, “They said we wouldn’t last, but we are still here, motherfuckers!”

Madonna hasn’t been on the VMA’s stage since 2018. But to make her return, the pop icon is seen stepping out into Times Square where she requests the taxi driver to take her to the “center of it all”. Surrounding her are reminders of her artistry, including some of her most iconic music videos such as “Material Girl” and “Vogue.’’ 

Following the video sequence, and making a nod to her upcoming film, Madame X, Madonna walked onstage in a Burberry trench coat and black Louboutin heels. Underneath the coat was a full latex ensemble by Atsuko Kudo, as well as Handsome Stockholm leather gloves and a Moschino leather apron. 

Arriving at Times Square was reminiscent of the singer’s own arrival to the city when she was 19-years-old. The singer claimed that this is where she found her start with the network.

“We found each other and formed a bond that changed my life, changed music and created a whole new art form. That’s why there’s only one place to be tonight.”

Rewatch Madonna’s surprise appearance below.