Katy Perry made a triumphant return to the MTV Video Music Awards stage to accept the 2024 Video Vanguard Award, an honorary title akin to a lifetime achievement award from MTV. The event took place on Wednesday night, and her partner, Orlando Bloom, presented her with the award, sharing a heartfelt kiss in a moment that captivated the audience.
During the ceremony, Bloom expressed his pride in Perry, using her real name, Katy Hudson, and celebrating their family, which includes their three-year-old daughter, Daisy. Following his introduction, Perry performed a medley of her biggest hits, featuring songs like “Dark Horse,” “E.T.,” and “California Gurls.”
Perry joins a prestigious group of past recipients of this honor that includes icons such as Shakira, Madonna, and Beyoncé. The couple is known for their affection for each other, and Perry recently made headlines for a lighthearted comment regarding their relationship dynamics.
The star has not graced the VMA stage since her dual hosting and performing role in 2017, where she closed the show with a rendition of “Swish Swish” alongside Nicki Minaj. Throughout her career, Perry has accumulated five other VMA awards, including multiple wins in 2011 and additional honors in 2012 and 2014.
By winning the Video Vanguard Award, Perry becomes only the tenth artist to also have won Video of the Year, joining an elite list of artists. Notably, she achieved a historic milestone at this year’s event, becoming the first individual to both host the show and receive its top honors.
Perry’s VMA journey began in 2009 with a memorable performance alongside Aerosmith’s Joe Perry, and she has made an indelible mark on the awards show over the years. Alongside her VMA achievements, she boasts an impressive career with 115 billion streams and numerous certifications, solidifying her status in the music industry.
Her latest win coincides with the release of her new single, “Lifetimes,” as she prepares to unveil her new album, “143,” set to launch on September 20.