Highlights from the 40th MTV Video Music Awards

The 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, held on Wednesday, was a vibrant celebration featuring powerful female performances, nostalgic moments, and even a touch of extraterrestrial flair.

The night was dominated by the reigning queens of pop, each bringing their unique flair to the stage. Taylor Swift delighted fans with her joyful award show dance moves, Chappell Roan made a memorable VMA debut with a dramatic performance, Sabrina Carpenter shared a playful moment with an “alien,” and Katy Perry dazzled with a high-flying medley of her greatest hits.

Male performers also made their mark. Eminem kicked off the show with energetic renditions of “Houdini” and “Somebody Save Me,” while Lenny Kravitz brought his signature rock style to a revamped version of his classic hit “Fly Away,” among other tracks.

Hosted by the Grammy-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion, the night was packed with standout moments. Here are some of the most memorable highlights:

Taylor Swift’s Tribute and Call to Action

Taylor Swift started the evening with a poignant tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks, reflecting on the events of 23 years ago. “Waking up this morning in New York on September 11th, I’ve been thinking about what happened, and everyone who lost a loved one,” she said. “The most important thing about today is remembering those we lost. Everything else tonight falls behind that.”

Swift and Post Malone won Best Collaboration for their hit single “Fortnight” from Swift’s latest album, “The Tortured Poets Department.” They also claimed the final award of the evening for Video of the Year, which Swift directed. In her acceptance speech, Swift thanked her boyfriend, Travis Kelce, for his support on the project. “Everything this man touches turns to happiness and fun and magic,” she said.

Swift wrapped up her speech with a call to action for her fans. She urged those over 18 to register to vote in the upcoming 2024 presidential election, echoing her recent endorsement of Kamala Harris.

Sabrina Carpenter’s Alien Encounter

In one of the night’s more whimsical moments, Sabrina Carpenter’s performance featured an on-stage kiss with an “alien”—though it was, of course, a theatrical prop. Carpenter performed a mash-up of “Espresso” and “Please Please Please” surrounded by backup dancers dressed as Moon People, referencing the VMA trophies.

Pop icon Cyndi Lauper introduced Carpenter, praising her for continuing to shine in the music industry. Lauper highlighted Carpenter’s vintage Bob Mackie gown, previously worn by Madonna, and celebrated her ability to bring fun to her performances.

Katy Perry’s High-Flying Performance

Katy Perry’s husband, actor Orlando Bloom, introduced her as the recipient of the VMA Video Vanguard Award, acknowledging her role in spreading joy and inspiration worldwide. Perry performed a medley of her greatest hits, including “California Gurls,” “Teenage Dream,” and “Firework,” while soaring on a harness. She concluded her set on the ground with her new song “Lifetimes.”

In her acceptance speech, Perry thanked Bloom, their daughter Daisy, her team, and her loyal fans, known as Katycats, who have supported her throughout her career.

Chappell Roan’s Fiery Entrance

Chappell Roan delivered one of the most dramatic performances of the night. Channeling Joan of Arc, Roan took the stage in medieval armor and used a crossbow with a burning arrow to set the backdrop on fire while performing her hit “Good Luck, Babe!” The stunt was a nod to her theatrical style, and she later won the award for Best New Artist for her debut album, “The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess.”

In her acceptance speech, Roan addressed queer youth in the Midwest, saying, “I see you, I understand you, because I am one of you. Don’t ever let anyone tell you that you can’t be exactly who you want to be.”

Carson Daly’s Nostalgic Nod

Former MTV host Carson Daly made a nostalgic appearance, introducing himself before presenting the Best K-Pop award to Lisa for her song “Rockstar.” Daly reminisced about his days hosting “Total Request Live,” saying, “For those of you who are too young to know who I am, I was the host of a show on MTV called Total Request Live or TRL. Kids going crazy in Times Square, and every day after school, I was with your mother. So please, tell her I said hi.”

The 40th MTV Video Music Awards showcased a vibrant mix of pop culture, heartfelt tributes, and unforgettable performances, making it a night to remember.