The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) took place on September 11, 2024, at the UBS Arena in New York, showcasing unforgettable performances, emotional speeches, and several viral moments that kept fans buzzing. Hosted by Megan Thee Stallion, the event celebrated some of the year’s top music hits with performances by Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello, LL Cool J, and more. Here are the top 8 viral moments from the event that captured everyone’s attention.
Flavor Flav’s Surprise Gift to Jordan Chiles
Flavor Flav appeared on stage as a vocal supporter of Team USA alongside Olympian Jordan Chiles to present the award for Best Collaboration. In a heartwarming moment, Flavor Flav surprised Chiles with a bronze clock necklace and offered to pay the prize money she would have received after being stripped of her gymnastics bronze medal.
Flavor Flav said, “I got your prize money… I just wanted to surprise you with that. I didn’t want to say nothing to you backstage. But Jordan, you did your thing. Congratulations. You deserve everything.”
Taylor Swift and Post Malone’s Heartfelt Acceptance Speech
Taylor Swift and Post Malone, the duo behind the chart-topping track Fortnite, received the first award of the night for Best Collaboration. The two shared a touching acceptance speech, with Swift praising Malone as “ridiculously talented” and “the most down-to-earth person.” Malone reciprocated by calling Swift “one of a kind” and expressing how honored he felt to know her.
Megan Thee Stallion’s Tribute to Britney Spears
Host Megan Thee Stallion paid homage to Britney Spears by wearing an outfit inspired by Spears’ iconic I’m a Slave 4 U performance from the 2001 VMAs. The tribute didn’t stop there as Tate McRae donned a Roberto Cavalli dress over Fleur du Mal lingerie, reminiscent of Spears’ red carpet look from the same event.
Sabrina Carpenter’s Alien Kiss and Britney Spears Reference
Sabrina Carpenter delivered a unique performance that included astronauts and an alien on stage. During her medley, Carpenter included a spoken interlude from Britney Spears’ hit Oops!… I Did It Again, and even shared a playful kiss with one of the aliens, drawing cheers from the audience.
Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom’s Sweet Moment
Katy Perry was honored with the Video Vanguard Award and received a touching introduction from her partner, Orlando Bloom, who spoke fondly of Perry as both a global superstar and a loving partner. Bloom’s words, “You fell in love with her as Katy Perry. I fell in love with her as Katheryn Hudson,” set the tone before Perry performed a medley of her greatest hits, followed by a sweet kiss between the couple.
Chappell Roan’s Electrifying Debut Performance
Newcomer Chappell Roan delivered a captivating debut performance, beginning with a flaming crossbow and donning armor as she sang Good Luck, Babe! Her intense and energetic performance set the stage alight, concluding with the audience erupting in applause.
Halsey’s Throwback Performance in a Garage Set
Halsey brought a nostalgic vibe to the VMAs with a performance of her latest single, Ego, in a garage set reminiscent of early 2000s aesthetics. She wore a dress similar to Elizabeth Hurley’s iconic Versace look from the 1996 VMAs, rocking out with an electric guitar alongside her band, which featured Måneskin bassist Victoria De Angel.
Chappell Roan’s Empowering Acceptance Speech
Chappell Roan also made headlines with her emotional acceptance speech after winning the award for Best New Artist. Dressed in a chainmail outfit, she expressed gratitude to her record label, Island Records, and offered a powerful message to her fans, particularly those from the LGBTQ+ community. “And for all the queer kids in the Midwest watching right now, I see you. I understand you because I’m one of you, and don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t be exactly who you want to be,” Roan said, drawing cheers from the crowd.
Can I get a round of applause for @ChappellRoan – YOUR 2024 #VMAs BEST NEW ARTIST!!!! 👏 pic.twitter.com/zK9UgqerPg
— Video Music Awards (@vmas) September 12, 2024
The 2024 MTV VMAs were packed with unforgettable moments, from surprise gifts and heartfelt speeches to tributes and powerful performances. For fans who tuned in, it was an event filled with excitement, celebration, and memorable highlights that will be talked about for weeks to come.
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