Madonna’s return to the MTV Video Music Awards has sparked a discussion about ageism, with co-hosts of The View speaking out against criticism directed at the 68-year-old pop star following her performance at the 2026 VMAs. The discussion took place on Monday’s episode of the ABC daytime talk show, one day after Madonna made her first appearance on the VMAs stage in 23 years.
Whoopi Goldberg opened the conversation by defending Madonna alongside actress Jasmine Guy, who has also recently faced public commentary about aging. Goldberg pointed to the way women are scrutinized as they grow older, while the discussion on The View focused on the conflicting expectations placed on women in the entertainment industry.
Alyssa Farah Griffin said Madonna was being criticized for being too sexual and for attempting to look younger, while Guy had faced criticism for aging more naturally. Griffin described the situation as one in which women face criticism regardless of how they choose to present themselves as they get older.
Sunny Hostin also addressed the backlash, questioning what the alternative is for women who want to continue working, performing and living publicly as they age. Hostin spoke about the importance of recognizing aging as a part of life rather than using it as a reason to shame women.
Ana Navarro joined the discussion by referencing Ricky Martin, who performed during halftime at the Baltimore Ravens-Dallas Cowboys game in Rio de Janeiro. Navarro noted that Martin is only a few days older than she is before turning the conversation back toward the scrutiny Madonna has received.
Madonna opened the 2026 VMAs on Sunday, performing “Bring Your Love” with Sabrina Carpenter before joining Charli xcx for “Danceteria Afterhours.” Her performance also featured appearances from Julia Garner, Sombr, Seth Rogen and Debi Mazar.
The singer entered the ceremony as the night’s most-nominated artist, receiving 13 nominations. She went on to win multiple awards, including Artist of the Year, Best Collaboration with Carpenter for “Bring Your Love,” and Best Dance.
Madonna also used her VMAs appearance to reflect on her career and longevity. During her Artist of the Year acceptance speech, she recalled her early experiences at the awards show and discussed the motivation behind her latest album, Confessions II.
The discussion on The View comes as online reactions to Madonna’s VMAs performance continue to focus on her appearance and age, while the co-hosts’ comments have added to the wider conversation about how women in entertainment are treated as they get older.
