Twerks, tantrums, stage invasions and more than one terrible decision… as the MTV Video Music Awards return, a look back at its most shocking moments

As I delve into the world of fashion and music, I find myself reminiscing about the iconic moments at the MTV Video Music Awards through the years. Being born just a few years after these events, I can’t help but marvel at how these stars have evolved over time.


Since its debut in 1984, it has delivered a plethora of unforgettable instances, and fans can anticipate similar excitement when the MTV Video Music Awards resume on this coming Wednesday evening.

The performance is now set for the following day at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York City, due to a shift in scheduling to make room for the Presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.

The 40th anniversary event will carry a special emotional resonance, since it coincides with the 23rd commemoration of the tragic events at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.

The event will showcase a variety of popular artists. Hosted by rapper Megan Thee Stallion, it’s anticipated that the program will include acts from Katy Perry, Lenny Kravitz, Sabrina Carpenter, Halsey, Eminem, and several others.

Moreover, Taylor Swift is poised for additional recognition, having been nominated a total of 12 times.

Tonight looks set to be a lengthy evening, so let’s reminisce about some of the most memorable moments from the MTV Video Music Awards as they unfurl on the red carpet.

1. BRITNEY SPEARS PERFORMS WITH A PYTHON (2001)

Even before I or many others had ever heard about conservatorships, I, like a shining star, had already reached the pinnacle of my career, being recognized as one of the most prominent pop icons of my era.

Her undeniable success led to some top billing at the 2001 MTV VMAs, where she performed international smash I’m A Slave 4 U while holding an enormous python. 

The Amazonian show, concluding unexpectedly when an individual put a banana on Britney’s shoulder, garnered praise from spectators, yet animal rights group PETA held a contrasting viewpoint.

In her autobiography titled “The Woman Within Me,” the vocalist confessed that she made an effort to maintain a low profile while performing, fearing that the serpent might harm her if it noticed her directly.

She stated that the incident has become a memorable milestone in the history of the VMAs, yet it turned out to be much more chilling than it seemed at first.

As of 2018, the python was still alive. 

2. ROBIN THICKE AND MILEY CYRUS HAVE A TWERK OFF (2013)

Back when memories of healthy, vibrant Hannah Montana were still fresh, the young lady who had breathed life into her took the stage at the 2013 VMAs. (Paraphrased)

At the tender age of 20, the performer found herself sharing the stage with Robin Thicke for a performance of his popular song “Blurred Lines.” Without delay, she swiftly removed her clothing to reveal a minuscule gold bikini.

Later, Miley playfully moved her curvaceous hips near the 36-year-old celebrity’s face and hugged him affectionately throughout the family-oriented performance.

Thoroughly amused, Miley couldn’t resist performing her trademark gesture of sticking out her tongue while dancing provocatively around Thicke, who was then married to Paula Patton.

According to reports, Patton allegedly felt deeply disrespected by Thicke’s explicit performance at the MTV Video Music Awards, which sparked a heated disagreement between them afterwards. She found the vulgar act offensive, more so because it was carried out in front of a large audience, and it was seen as particularly insulting to her.

As reported by TMZ, Paula became noticeably upset due to Miley’s spontaneous stage act that took place without prior notification – an unexpected move that her partner willingly supported.

3. MILEY CYRUS… AGAIN (2015)

After two years, Cyrus once more grabbed attention, this occasion being when he served as the host at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles.

Although the live show had a delay for censorship purposes, Miley Cyrus found a way to expose her bare breast during the national telecast nonetheless.

During the last act of the evening, the performer was seen discreetly preparing backstage. All of a sudden, she accidentally opened a curtain momentarily.

After flashing the camera, Cyrus could be heard through her headset: ‘Sorry, my tit’s out’.

Not only that, but the Wrecking Ball performer engaged in a heated debate with Nicki Minaj during their live TV appearance.

During her acceptance speech for Best Hip-Hop Video, Minaj took time to address some remarks made by the event host a few days prior.

Toward the conclusion of her speech, the rapper criticized Cyrus by stating: “Now, let’s return to this individual who had plenty to say about me in the media. How are you doing?

The singer, who was standing on a different platform on-stage replied by saying: ‘We are all in this industry, we all do interviews and we all know how the media manipulates things. Nicki congratulations.’

Ouch… 

4. MADONNA. CHRISTINA, BRITNEY… AND THAT KISS! (2003)

The gasps were audible at New York’s Radio City Music Hall as the three pop icons shared a kiss after performing Madonna’s Like A Virgin and Hollywood in front of a star-studded audience. 

At an unanticipated instant, with Madonna surrounded by two rising celebrities, she leaned in to give each of them a kiss, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the MTV Video Music Awards.

23 years after her experience, Christina shared with Glamour that she has a fondness for themes, ideas, and particular characters that allow her immersion.

Speaking about it, the idea of Madonna portraying the bride was quite extraordinary. I mean, just imagine that! We were right there, sharing the same space with Madonna, being a part of something massive and momentous. It was truly exhilarating, she shared.

‘The energy leading up to it, the rehearsals, everything. It was pretty magical.’

5. KANYE WEST UPSTAGING TAYLOR SWIFT (2009)

At the 2009 MTV Video Music Awards, Kanye West delivered a show that’s still talked about today, yet sadly, this spectacle wasn’t related to his musical talents.

At one point during Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech as a rising country artist, a rapper dramatically entered the stage to deliver an extraordinary outburst.

At the age of 19, the female singer, victorious with the Best Female Video award for “You Belong To Me,” experienced embarrassment when West seized the microphone right out of her hands.

With all my heart, I raised my voice to the crowd, passionately declaring that the gong should’ve been awarded to my beloved friend Beyoncé for her incredible track, Single Ladies (Put A Ring On It)!

The popular hip-hop artist, who was seen sipping Hennessy cognac on the red carpet throughout the evening, received a chorus of disapproval from the vast crowd of celebrities in attendance.

And it was only the first category of the night.

Swift started her speech exhilarated, saying, “I’ve often pondered if I might ever win one of these awards someday, yet never truly believed it could become a reality.

However, just as she was about to proceed, West unexpectedly jumped up from the audience’s seat, sprinted onto the stage, and made a beeline for the microphone, leaving a puzzled Taylor Swift trying to process the situation.

West addressed the shocked celebrity saying, “Hey Taylor, I’m genuinely pleased for you. But I’d like to interject and say that Beyoncé’s video might just be the greatest ever made.

Cameras cut to Beyoncé in the crowd who looked shocked and mortified.

In that moment, as I returned the microphone with a shrug, Swift – clearly taken aback – seemed frozen at the center of the stage, almost at a loss for words to proceed.

Instead, she got another opportunity to voice her thoughts after Beyoncé won the award for Best Choreography in the Single Ladies video.

Later on, West expressed regret for his outburst, however, this event ignited a prolonged disagreement between the rapper and Swift, who has since risen to become a global pop sensation eclipsing his popularity significantly.

6. RAGE AGAINST THE MACINE STAR TIM COMMERFORD’S ARREST (2000)

At the 2000 MTV Video Music Awards, Tim Commerford, bassist of Rage Against the Machine, was taken into police custody. This happened because he stormed the stage in a demonstration over their band not receiving an award.

The protest band missed out on Best Rock Video, with the award instead going to Limp Bizkit. 

The event triggered Commerford’s aggressive action of rushing onto the stage and climbing on some equipment, which resulted in his arrest and charges for assault and resisting arrest.

Later on, Commerford confessed that his intention was to demolish the structure, but once he was up there, it felt more like, “Wow, now what should I do?

7. MICHAEL JACKSON AND LISA MARIE PRESLEY’S PUBLIC DECLARATION OF LOVE (1994)

During the hot days of summer 1994, Jackson and Presley chose to conceal their union amidst the gossip, only for Elvis’ granddaughter to officially announce it in an August statement, putting an end to speculation.

Lisa Marie Presley is now known as Mrs. Lisa Marie Presley-Jackson, following my recent marriage to Michael Jackson. This intimate wedding ceremony occurred overseas a few weeks back.

I deeply cherish Michael, and I’m devoted to becoming his spouse for life. I stand by him through thick and thin, offering understanding and support. Together, we eagerly anticipate the joy of building a family together.

About a month past, they – she and Jackson – graced the MTV Video Music Awards stage in unison. Stepping onto the platform side by side, Jackson momentarily halted, allowing the audience’s applause to subside.

He began by saying, “Welcome to the MTV Video Music Awards!” After allowing the applause to subside once more, he continued, addressing unspokenly Lisa Marie, “I’m overjoyed to be here. Can you believe it? Not many believed this moment would come.

He then planted a bit lip-locking kiss on his wife and pulled her in close as the crowd went wild. 

He then planted a bit lip-locking kiss on his wife and pulled her in close as the crowd went wild.

8 FIONA APPLE – ‘THE WORLD IS BULL****’ (1997)

At the 1997 MTV Video Music Awards, artist Apple expressed her thoughts as she received the Breakthrough Video award for her song “Criminal”.

Leaving guests speechless, she said: ‘To everyone who’s watching, this world is b*******. 

Instead of shaping your life based on what you believe we find trendy or fashionable, focus more on expressing yourself authentically through your actions, clothing, and speech.

Later on, Apple acknowledged that her outburst had an impact on the public’s view of her. In a conversation with Rolling Stone, she explained that she transformed from being perceived as a “tragic, ethereal, vulnerable waif” to being seen as a “spoiled, aggressive, unpredictable woman.

 

Looking back at some unforgettable fashion moments! From Lady Gaga’s daring “meat dress” to Lil’ Kim’s striking purple pasties, here are the most iconic outfits at the MTV Video Music Awards.

The MTV Video Music Awards might not be as grand as the Academy Awards or the Met Gala, yet they’ve certainly offered their fair share of outrageous fashion incidents around the globe.

It’s hard to overlook the memorable outfits like Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” style and Lady Gaga’s meat dress; these bold fashion choices are likely to be remembered as timeless icons in fashion history.

Madonna, the pop queen, paved the way long before it was fashionable. She dared to wear undergarments as outerwear at the 1984 Video Music Awards, a trend that would come much later.

To perform her hit song Like A Virgin at Tavern On The Green, she donned a white tulle skirt, matching bustier, lace gloves and a ‘Boy Toy’ belt buckle.  

And while many have adopted the iconic look for Halloween – the original remains unmatched.

Back in 2010, I had the privilege of gracing the red carpet in an extraordinary outfit – a gown and Armadillo-style shoes, both designed by the legendary Alexander McQueen. This fashion statement was among the last pieces he worked on before his tragic demise, making it a truly unique memory for me.

But that was just one of many looks she would don that evening, and certainly not the craziest. 

She won the Video Of The Year award, dressed in an edible outfit created by Franc Fernandez and styled by Nicola Formichetti.

Lady Gaga donned a gown and footwear crafted from uncooked beef, an outfit that would come to be known as the notorious “meat dress.

8 prizes were won by her that night, among them Best Female Video and Best Pop Video. An attention-grabbing gown of hers, which had been the subject of much debate, is now preserved by a taxidermist and can be seen at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

At the 2009 VMAs, Kanye West’s interruption of Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech undeniably made a lasting impact, yet it was Lady Gaga’s five wardrobe transformations that truly left a mark on the evening.

She struck poses for the cameras on the red carpet, wearing a Jean Paul Gaultier creation that boasted intricate black lace and feather detailing.

She accessorized with an opera-style mask, hat and neck brace by Keko Hainswheeler.

Towards the night’s end, the performer delivered a stunning rendition of her famous track “Paparazzi” while dressed entirely in white, followed by fake blood trickling down her torso.

In continuation of her show, she received the award for Best New Artist while donning a red lace dress, underwear, and a mask, as well as a thorny headpiece. After removing her mask, she expressed her gratitude towards God and the LGBTQ+ community.

Instead of heading straight to the press room, she paused for a quick wardrobe switch, opting this time for a silver space-age bodysuit by Jean Paul Gaultier and matching sparkly boots.

Nothing is off limits for the New York native!

At the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, Lady Gaga didn’t walk the red carpet as herself, instead she appeared in disguise as a profane, smoking character named Joe Calderone.

A true performance artist, she stayed in character all night long, even while singing You And I.

At the 2014 MTV Video Music Awards, I found myself channeling the iconic fashion moment of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake from the 28th annual American Music Awards back in 2001. Yup, you guessed it – we both showed up dressed head-to-toe in denim! It was a tribute to their legendary coordinated outfits, undeniably a defining moment in pop culture history.

Beyoncé used the 2011 award ceremony to announce her pregnancy to the world.

The icon stepped onto the carpet at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles in an orange gown by Lanvin. 

She cradled her stomach and posed for photographers with that mom-to-be glow.

Following my electrifying rendition of Love On Top, I couldn’t resist sharing my joyous news with everyone. So, I unzipped my tuxedo jacket, revealing a small yet significant bump, allowing the audience to be part of this special secret moment with me.

Proud father-to-be Jay-Z and enthusiastic friend Kanye West gleefully looked on.

In 1999 Lil Kim took a risk and made headlines.   

At just 4 feet 11 inches tall, the petite rapper showcased her toned physique in a lavender and silver catsuit adorned with a holographic design.

Misa Hylton finished off her unique design, which included a nipple cover on her left breast. She accentuated the style with wedge shoes and vibrant purple hair.

In the 1970s, it was Cher who established a fashion trend for captivating awards show looks, collaborating with designer Bob Mackie to achieve this.

54-year-old star, known for his timeless appeal, had the honor of presenting the Best Video Of The Year award to Lady Gaga. He did so while donning the iconic battleship outfit from her Turn Back Time video, which was initially released 20 years ago.

Not even a meat dress could show up this living legend! 

Back in 1992, fashion icon Cindy Crawford and comedian Denis Leary surprisingly graced the same occasion at the Ninth Annual MTV Video Music Awards.

Cindy looked breathtaking in a black Versace look that’s so chic it and on trend, it could easily be worn by her 17-year-old daughter Kaia, today.  

Jennifer Lopez’s style has come a long way since the MTV Video Music Awards in September of 2000.

In an iconic Jennifer Lopez style, she was awarded the Best Dance Video prize for her popular track “Waiting For Tonight,” following its release.

She showed off her well-toned abdomen while donning a white crop top and low-slung pants. She added a sparkle with a rhinestone belt and coordinating bandana as her accessories.

Forget about hips – it’s Shakira’s abs that don’t lie!

Born and raised in Colombia, she captivated America in 2001 with her sensational physique and enchanting dance routines when she introduced ‘Whenever, Wherever’.

That particular year, she went to the VMAs wearing an outfit that later defined her style – a feathery bustier top paired with trousers featuring a low-slung lace-up front, which hung loosely.

At the same event that year, Rose McGowan made a bold statement by wearing a fishnet dress, leopard-print undergarments, and no additional clothing.

While Macy Gray used her clothing to promote her new album.  

13 years on, Amber Rose adopted a similar fashion aesthetic as Rose, donning a gown crafted from flowing chains – just like she did before.

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2024-09-11 19:17

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