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Unforgettable VMA moments that shook pop culture
Let’s rewind the wildest MTV VMA moments in history
The MTV Video Music Awards (VMA) have always created shocking and controversial moments throughout their long run of more than 40 years.
With the VMA 2025 just concluded, here are the most talked-about moments in the star-studded event.
Britney Spears snake performance
The Toxic hitmaker shocked the audience in 2001 when she performed her smash hit I’m a Slave 4 U, stepping on stage with a seven-foot Burmese python draped over her shoulders.
Years later, she called her move “dumb,” adding she would “never” do it again.
Taylor Swift abruptly interrupted by Kanye West
One of the moments that redefined pop culture took place at the 2009 VMAs, when the Invisible String songstress was interrupted mid-acceptance speech by Kanye West after she received an award for Best Female Video.
When Swift’s video for You Belong With Me won against Beyonce's Single Ladies, the Bully rapper took the microphone and made controversial remarks.
“Taylor, I'm really happy for you, and I'ma let you finish… but Beyoncé had one of the best videos of all time,” West declared, leaving everyone shocked.
Lady Gaga’s infamous meat outfit
The Born This Way songstress accepted her Video of the Year award in 2010 wearing a dress made entirely of raw beef, meticulously designed by designer Franc Fernandez.
As expected, Gaga was met with severe backlash, particularly from several animal rights groups
The purpose of the dress was to protest against the U.S. military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy and to assert her own rights and identity, stating she was not just a “piece of meat.”
Beyonce’s pregnancy announcement
The Halo hitmaker announced her pregnancy with her first child, Blue Ivy, after her electrifying performance at the 2011 VMAs.
Right after performing Love On Top, Beyonce unbuttoned her blazer, dropped her microphone on the floor, and rubbed her tummy, revealing she was expecting her first child with husband Jay-Z.
Miley Cyrus raunchiest moment
This one remains the most controversial moment in VMA history.
The Wrecking Ball hitmaker stunned viewers when she stripped down to a nude bikini top and briefs, twerking on fellow performer Robin Thicke at the 2013 VMAs.
“Madonna’s done it. Britney’s done it. Every VMA performance… that’s what you’re looking for; you’re wanting to make history,” Cyrus said afterward.
