Taylor Swift lands top trophy at MTV’s Video Music Awards

Los Angeles witnessed Taylor Swift take home the most coveted award at MTV's Video Music Awards on Sunday for her showgirl-inspired video, "The Fate of Ophelia." This song is the first single off her album, "The Life of a Showgirl," released in 2025. Swift dedicated the video to the late Dolly Parton, whom she called "the ultimate showgirl." On accepting the VMA honor, Swift eulogized Parton, stating, "I think that we were all very lucky to share this planet with Dolly Parton for a time."

Earlier, Swift was awarded the inaugural MTV VMA Artist Director Honors, acknowledging her skills in writing and directing music videos. She explained, "You actually care about what we're making," emphasizing the fans' role in her creative process.

The VMAs, broadcast live on CBS and MTV, and streamed on Paramount+, determined winners through fan votes. In other categories, Madonna was named artist of the year, and Madonna's duet with Carpenter, "Bring Your Love," was crowned best collaboration. Madonna praised Carpenter's collaborative style, noting how they complement each other: "When I show up late, she shows up early."

Lisa, from the group Blackpink, won the VMA for best pop video for her solo effort, "Dream." The singer, wearing a black outfit with white fringe sleeves, thanked her fans, or "Lillies," as she held the VMA Moon Person trophy, expressing gratitude for their love and support.