The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) are always filled with surprises, but this year’s show delivered a moment that had everyone talking. Katy Perry, receiving the prestigious VMA Video Vanguard Award, gave a show-stopping performance that included a now-famous kiss on stage with rapper Doechii. However, it was pop icon Taylor Swift’s reaction to the kiss that truly set social media on fire. Let’s dive into what happened and why Taylor Swift’s response has the internet buzzing.
Katy Perry’s Iconic Performance and Kiss at the VMAs
Katy Perry, one of pop’s biggest superstars, was honored with the lifetime achievement Video Vanguard Award at the 2023 VMAs. The accolade, presented by her fiancé, actor Orlando Bloom, recognized Perry’s long-standing contribution to the music industry. In his heartfelt speech, Bloom described Perry as a “global superstar who brings love, light, and humor to every song she writes.”
To mark the occasion, Perry treated the audience to a medley of her greatest hits, including “Teenage Dream,” “I Kissed a Girl,” and “E.T.” The performance also featured one of her more recent tracks, “I’m His, He’s Mine,” a collaboration with rapper Doechii. As part of the performance, Perry and Doechii leaned in and shared a kiss on stage, creating a buzz both at the event and online.
Taylor Swift’s Candid Reaction Captured on Camera
Taylor Swift, who attended the event, found herself in the spotlight for a reason that had nothing to do with her own music. As Perry and Doechii shared their on-stage kiss, cameras caught Swift’s immediate reaction. The footage, taken by an audience member, shows Swift dancing along to the song, only to pause in surprise as the kiss unfolded. Her mouth dropped open, and she burst into laughter before turning to cheer along with the rest of the audience.
Social media quickly exploded with reactions to Swift’s candid and relatable response. Fans took to platforms like Twitter to comment on how Swift’s shock and amusement mirrored their own. Tweets like “Even she was GAGGED” and “Her reaction is priceless!” echoed across the internet, turning Swift’s response into one of the night’s most talked-about moments.
Why Taylor Swift’s Reaction Was So Relatable
Part of the reason Taylor Swift’s reaction resonated with so many people is her down-to-earth demeanor. Despite being one of the biggest stars on the planet, Swift often comes across as approachable and genuine in her interactions. Her response to Perry’s kiss was no different—her surprise and amusement felt authentic, and it was easy for viewers to relate to her reaction.
Swift’s reaction wasn’t staged or rehearsed, and that’s exactly what fans loved about it. In an era where celebrity appearances can often feel overly polished or controlled, Swift’s candidness was a refreshing reminder that even superstars can have moments of genuine surprise. “She had our reaction,” as one fan put it on social media.
The History Between Katy Perry and Taylor Swift
For long-time followers of pop culture, Taylor Swift’s reaction to Perry’s kiss carried a bit of extra significance. The two pop queens famously had a public feud that spanned several years. It all began when Swift hinted at a conflict between her and Perry in interviews, and rumors quickly spread that the disagreement involved backup dancers who left Swift’s tour to join Perry’s.
The feud was further fueled by Swift’s song “Bad Blood,” which many believed to be directed at Perry. However, the two stars eventually buried the hatchet in 2019, when Perry appeared in Swift’s “You Need to Calm Down” music video, officially signaling the end of their rivalry.
Swift’s reaction to Perry’s on-stage kiss at the VMAs seems to indicate that any lingering tension between the two has long since evaporated. Instead of awkwardness, Swift’s laughter and applause reflected genuine support and enjoyment of Perry’s performance.
Katy Perry’s Powerful Speech: A Lesson in Authenticity
While Taylor Swift’s reaction may have grabbed headlines, it’s important not to overlook the significance of Katy Perry’s VMA speech. In accepting the Video Vanguard Award, Perry took the opportunity to share some heartfelt advice for younger artists.
She acknowledged the pressures of fame and the constant criticism that women, in particular, face in the industry. Perry spoke about the importance of staying true to oneself, blocking out negativity, and focusing on one’s art. “There are so many things that have to align to have a long and successful career as an artist. There are no decade-long accidents,” she said.
Perry’s words resonated with the audience and underscored her longevity in the music world. Her message was clear: authenticity, self-care, and resilience are key to surviving in the spotlight.
Why This VMAs Moment Will Be Remembered
The 2023 VMAs will undoubtedly be remembered for Katy Perry’s stunning performance and her heartfelt acceptance speech, but it’s Taylor Swift’s reaction that added a layer of relatability to the event. Swift’s candid response to Perry’s kiss with Doechii provided a lighthearted and human moment in an otherwise glittering and polished awards show.
Taylor Swift’s reaction to Doechii and Katy Perry kissing during their #VMAs performance. https://t.co/VQ92RnqUTI
— Pop Base (@PopBase) September 12, 2024
Fans will continue to talk about this VMAs moment for years to come, not just because of the kiss itself but because of Swift’s genuine and unscripted reaction. It’s a reminder that even in the glamorous world of celebrity, stars like Swift and Perry are still capable of surprising us—and themselves.
Conclusion
In a night filled with unforgettable performances and speeches, it was a simple, genuine reaction from Taylor Swift that stole the show. As Katy Perry accepted her Video Vanguard Award and shared a surprise kiss with rapper Doechii, Swift’s candid shock and laughter reminded everyone that even the biggest stars can experience moments of unexpected surprise. As social media buzzes about both the kiss and Swift’s reaction, it’s clear that this VMAs moment will go down in pop culture history.
