The View hosts push back on age criticism of Madonna's VMAs return
The co-hosts of The View defended Madonna on the 28 September episode, saying the backlash to her MTV Video Music Awards performance was rooted in age.
The daytime talk show, which covers news and pop culture, took up the response to Madonna's return to the VMAs stage on Sunday night. The hosts argued that women in public life are criticised whatever choices they make about ageing.
Co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin said Madonna was being criticised for being too overtly sexual and for trying to look too young. "You can't win no matter what direction you take it," she said, according to Billboard.
Co-host Sunny Hostin added a shorter defence. "It is such a blessing to be able to age," she said during the discussion.
Madonna, 68, opened the 2026 VMAs with her first performance at the awards show in 23 years. She performed "Bring Your Love" with Sabrina Carpenter and "Danceteria Afterhours" with Charli xcx, with appearances from Julia Garner, Sombr, Seth Rogen and Debi Mazar.
She wore an unfastened blazer over a red bustier for the set, a menswear-style look described by People. The performance drew both attention and age-related criticism online, which prompted Monday's debate.
Madonna entered the night as the most-nominated artist and left with seven awards. That is her highest VMAs tally in a single year.
The 2026 ceremony, the MTV Video Music Awards that honour achievements in music video, was hosted by Snoop Dogg, according to People. Taylor Swift also used the broadcast to premiere the music video for "Patient Zero."
