Ariana Grande earned eight nominations at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards — including top categories Video of the Year and Artist of the Year — but will not attend, choosing instead to take a well-deserved break from the public eye after wrapping her world tour.
Despite leading the pack with eight nominations at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, Ariana Grande will not be present at the ceremony. Her absence comes as part of a deliberate decision to step away from high-profile appearances following the conclusion of her massive Eternal Sunshine Tour, which wrapped in early September 2026. A representative for the star confirmed the plan in an official statement, explaining that the past period has been marked by relentless public scrutiny and that she is prioritising rest and personal well-being.
"Ariana will be taking a step back from visibility after she completes the Eternal Sunshine Tour," the statement read. "She looks forward to finishing the tour and ending it on a high note, both healthily and happily, and then taking a much-deserved break from public-facing work and appearances, which has led to endless, ongoing public scrutiny. This tour has been a beautiful experience for her. She loves her fans and has loved every minute of this tour so much."
The decision also means Grande has withdrawn from her previously announced role in the West End production of Sunday in the Park with George, opposite Wicked co-star Jonathan Bailey. The Barbican Centre confirmed the news in a respectful statement: "We can confirm that she has decided to step back from Sunday in the Park with George. We know this cannot have been an easy decision, and she makes it with our complete understanding and support. We wish her nothing but the best."
It is not yet clear when Grande will return to public life or release new music. Fans and industry observers have widely praised her choice to protect her peace and health, noting that after years of non-stop work — including global touring, major film roles, and chart-topping releases — this pause is long overdue. The eight nominations she received at the VMAs serve as a reminder of her enduring dominance in pop music, even while she takes time away from the spotlight.
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