The 2024 MTV VMAs: A Full Recap of Taylor Swift's Wins, the Jaw-Dropping Fashion and Epic Performances

MTV's iconic awards show celebrated its milestone 40th anniversary this year, and PEOPLE covered all the action live from the UBS Arena in Long Island, New York

By 

Dave Quinn

 

 

Updated on September 11, 2024 11:45PM EDT

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Post Malone and Taylor Swift at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards. PHOTO: 

MIKE COPPOLA/GETTY

The MTV Video Music Awards just celebrated the big 4-0!

Four decades after launching what would become a pop culture juggernaut with its very first VMAs, the music television network put on its 40th anniversary show on Wednesday, Sept. 11, live from the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.

Megan Thee Stallion hosted the milestone evening, which was attended by some of the biggest names across the entertainment industry. And that's not included those who took the stage: Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, Camila Cabello, Halsey, LL Cool J, Lenny Kravitz, Shawn Mendes and Eminem (among others).

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Katy Perry received the Video Vanguard Award and also performed a medley of her hits. Previous recipients over the years for the prestigious honor include Shakira, Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, Madonna, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna and Missy Elliott.

PEOPLE covered the VMAs live with reporters on the red carpet and at the arena, sharing all the fashion fun as well as every powerful performance, can't-miss moment and memorable acceptance speech.