Despite having a controversial rollout of her upcoming sixth album 143, Katy Perry will move forward at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards as a Video Vanguard Award recipient.
On Thursday, August 15, it was announced that the 'Firework' artist will receive the Video Vanguard Award and will take the MTV VMAs stage at New York's UBS Arena on Wednesday, September 11. During the telecast, which is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET that evening, Perry will perform a medley of hits, similar to previous Video Vanguard winners like Nicki Minaj and Shakira.
Perry nabbing the award comes as a shock to some, as the 39-year-old has been at the center of controversy for her new singles “Woman’s World” and “Lifetimes,” both co-produced by Dr. Luke, who's been alleged of rape. For the latter single, the accompanying music video will reportedly be investigated for environmental damage, due to filming being unauthorized at Spain’s S'Espalmador island.
"Katy is a musical powerhouse and true pop culture icon," stated Bruce Gillmer, Paramount's president of music, music talent, programming and events and Paramount+'s chief content officer.
"With her game changing creative vision, she has become a global phenomenon and taken over the world’s biggest stages," he continued. "Katy’s prowess will be on full display LIVE on the VMAs with a can’t-miss, career-encompassing performance celebrating her biggest moments and chart-topping hits."
As Perry prepares for the September 20th release of 143, the Video Vanguard award will make her sixth overall VMA, previously winning in categories like Best Collaboration ("E.T" featuring Kanye West) and Best Female Video ("Dark Horse" featuring Juicy J).