Top 10 Highlights from the 2024 MTV VMAs

 The 2024 MTV VMAs: A Night to Remember

On September 11, 2024, stars gathered at UBS Arena in New York to celebrate some of the year's finest music, including hits like Sabrina Carpenter's "Espresso" and Taylor Swift and Post Malone's "Fortnight." Hosted by Megan Thee Stallion, the ceremony featured standout performances from artists like Shawn Mendes, Camila Cabello, and LL Cool J.

Here are 10 of the most memorable moments from the night, showcasing everything from Chappell Roan's captivating Joan of Arc-inspired act to the onstage affection between Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry.

1. Flavor Flav Surprises Jordan Chiles with a Bronze Clock and Cash Flavor Flav took the stage alongside Olympian Jordan Chiles to present the award for Best Collaboration. While Taylor Swift and Post Malone won the Moon Person, Flav honored Chiles with a bronze clock necklace, teasing it on social media. He also announced he would give her the cash prize she missed out on after losing her gymnastics bronze medal. “You deserve everything,” he said, celebrating her achievements.

2. Taylor Swift and Post Malone's Sweet Acceptance Speech Swift kicked off the VMAs by winning the first Moon Person of the night for her collaboration with Post Malone on "Fortnight." In her speech, she praised Malone's talent and humility, while he returned the compliment, calling her “one of the most kind and talented people” he's ever known.

3. Megan Thee Stallion Pays Tribute to Britney Spears As the night’s host, Megan Thee Stallion showcased various outfits, including one that honored Britney Spears' iconic “I’m a Slave 4 U” look from the 2001 VMAs, complete with a green bra top and a yellow snake—though she humorously requested the snake be removed halfway through.

4. Sabrina Carpenter's Alien-Inspired Medley Sabrina Carpenter wowed the audience with a cosmic-themed performance that included an alien and a nod to Britney Spears' "Oops!…I Did It Again." She even kissed the alien before diving into her hit "Espresso."

5. Orlando Bloom and Katy Perry's Sweet Moment Katy Perry received the Video Vanguard Award from her partner, Orlando Bloom, who shared heartfelt words about her dual identity as a global superstar and a devoted mother. Following his introduction, Perry performed a medley of her greatest hits and shared a kiss with Bloom.

6. Chappell Roan's Fiery Awards Show Debut Chappell Roan made a memorable debut with a medieval-themed performance that featured a flaming crossbow and a suit of armor. Introduced by drag queen Sasha Colby, she captivated the crowd with her rendition of "Good Luck, Babe!" while dancing with sword-wielding knights.

7. Halsey's Garage Rock Performance Continuing the throwback vibe, Halsey performed her latest single “Ego” in a garage setting, dressed in a look reminiscent of the early 2000s, complete with an electric guitar and a band featuring Måneskin’s bassist.

8. Chappell Roan's Emotional Acceptance Speech After winning Best New Artist, Roan delivered a heartfelt speech, thanking her supporters and honoring the LGBTQ+ community. She urged queer kids watching to embrace their identities, stating, “I see you. I understand you, because I'm one of you.”

9. LL Cool J's Nostalgic Hip-Hop Medley To celebrate the 40th anniversary of the VMAs and Def Jam Recordings, LL Cool J took the stage with Flavor Flav and Chuck D to perform a medley of classic hits, reminding fans of hip-hop's enduring legacy.

10. Taylor Swift's Sweet Shout-Out to Travis Kelce Swift made waves when she mentioned her boyfriend, NFL star Travis Kelce, during her acceptance speech for Video of the Year. She described the joy he brought to the set of "Fortnight," concluding with, “Everything this man touches turns to happiness and fun.”

The 2024 MTV VMAs delivered an unforgettable night filled with memorable performances, heartfelt moments, and a celebration of music that left fans buzzing.