With electrifying performances, killer red carpet outfits, and the biggest names in pop music, the 2021 VMAs were a massive online hit, garnering over 38 million social media interactions. Unfortunately, this did not translate to the actual network television broadcast, which hit a record low in viewership.
MTV’s once highly anticipated award show has hit a steady decline in the past few years, and the controversies surrounding this year’s production did not help. Before the initial broadcast, many fans of the singer Normani took to social media to voice their frustration at her not being booked for the show.
The “Wild Side” singer sold 17,000 copies of her single in the U.S. its first week, and debuted at number 13 on the Billboard’s Hot 100. It beat the releases of other singles from Camila Cabello and Lorde, who were scheduled to perform. Fans online accused the production of racism and misogyny. Normani was soon booked, and she delivered one of the most talked-about performances of the night; but the initial snub was not soon forgotten.
Viewers also noticed how the host, Doja Cat, was given minimal screen time compared to the other presenters. Fans were quick to accuse the show of using her name for views without letting her host. Additionally, Justin Bieber won Artist of the Year in an upset, beating out the rest of the category, which was entirely made up of female nominees.
Despite incredible performances from upcoming artists like Chloe Bailey, Olivia Rodrigo and Kid Laroi, as well as the promise of drama—such as a fight between Machine Gun Kelly and Conor Mcgregor—the 2021 VMAs did not compare to their iconic shows of the past. This year left many viewers asking whether MTV will ever be able to revive the credibility of their award show.
Written by Sofia Appolonio of Bethesda-Chevy Chase High School
Photo courtesy of MTV Youtube Channel