23 People Taylor Swift Could Bring as Her Date to the VMAs

Sean Griffis
Aug 25, 2015

There are plenty of OMG-moments guaranteed to happen at Sunday’s MTV VMAs. Host Miley Cyrus will without a doubt supply a majority of them. The other definite watercooler topic generator will be nine-time nominee and go-to audience dancer Taylor Swift, who will also be premiering the music video for new single, “Wildest Dreams.”

The propartyplanner literally has a rolodex of women she could stroll the red carpet with, from Zendaya, Lily Aldridge and Serena Williams to Hayley Williams, Ciara or Kendall Jenner — and a couple dozen more. Scroll through to see 23 women we’d love to see the crop top lover and professional friend arrive with Sunday night.

1. Ellen DeGeneres: Imagine all the twinning possibilities that could go down between this pair. We’re requesting a matching pantsuit look, ideal for dancing up and down the aisles all night long. (Photo via @taylorswift)

2. Karlie Kloss: Just think of the BTS Klossy YouTube vid we would get post-VMAs. DIY sign making required, Karlie. (Photo via @karliekloss)

3. Jaime King: We’re sure the mother of Taylor’s godson could use a night off of mommy duty. What better way for a kid-free evening than a star-studded event? We know we’d RSVP yes to that invite. (Photo via @jaime_king)

4. Lena Dunham: Because these girlswill definitely shake it off in the audience together all night long like no one’s watching. (Photo via @lenadunham)

5. Selena Gomez: She was her arch-nemesis in the “Bad Blood” video, so it only makes sense they finish the girl-on-girl fighting action with a playful one for that Moonman onstage. (Photo via @selenagomez)

6. Lorde: Honestly, we just miss this lady and want her in our lives more. So drag her along Sunday night, Taylor, please and thank you. (Photo via @taylorswift)

7. Uzo Aduba: The OITNB actress is already a known red carpet knock-out, pair her up with Taylor’s unforgettable style and the duo would without a doubt be tied at the top of every “Best Dressed” list. And if not, we’re sure they’d throw a pie for each other at all the reporters that didn’t love their looks ;) (Photo via @taylorswift)

8. Sarah Hyland: If this snap is any indication about the reaction shots this duo would provide throughout the VMAs, sign us up for a video feed focused solely on them the entire night. (Photo via @taylorswift)

9. Camila Cabello: It wouldn’t technically be fair if this gal, one-fifth of Fifth Harmony, ditched her ladies to hang with Taylor for the night. But the BFFs are just too darn cute together that it would be worth it. (Photo via @camila_cabello)

10. Cara Delevingne: We already know the model and Paper Towns actress had a blast at MTV’s other awards show earlier this summer, so if Tay brought her along she’d be in for a wildly unforgettable evening for sure. (Photo via @caradelevingne)

11. Andreja Pejic: This duo obviously had a blast onstage at Taylor’s 1989 tour so why not continue the party by bringing this model as her plus one for another fun, dance-filled evening. (Photo via @andrejapejic)

12. The USWNT: Bringing the Women’s World Cup champs would require a party bus, but there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that. Especially when you’re Taylor Swift. (Photo via @taylorswift)

13. Serayah: The only thing better than Taylor rolling up to the VMAs with the Empire actress would be if the duo became a trio by arriving with Cookie, aka Taraji P. Henson. (Photo via @serayah)

14. Ellie Goulding: Anything could happen (namely a beyond pleasant evening) if this singer appeared side-by-side with T.Swift. (Photo via @taylorswift)

15. + 16. Martha Hunt + Gigi Hadid: The only thing better than showing up with one model would be making everyone stop and stare and arriving with two. And who better than two of her “Bad Blood” leading ladies? (Photo via @taylorswift)

17. Mariska Hargitay: She named one of her cats after this actress’ most popular role, the least she could do is invite her to the VMAs. Taylor, just make sure not to exclude Ellen Pompeo, the origin of your other cat’s name. (Photo via @taylorswift)

18. Hailee Steinfeld: The Pitch Perfect 2 star *does* happen to be transitioning into a popstar so we’re sure she wouldn’t mind joining one of the world’s most-recognized names for one of her biggest nights. (Photo via @haileesteinfeld)

19. Emma Stone: There’s nothing we wouldn’t give to get a free pass to the Emma + Taylor show. Make it happen, Swift! (Photo via @taylorswift)

20. – 22. The Haim Sisters: Though Taylor isn’t technically a part of the Haim sisterhood by blood, we’re sure she’s an honorary sister. So make it a family affair and bring the trio of sibs along for the ride. (Photo via @taylorswift)

23. Emma Watson: Really we just want to see the #girlbosses that are Hermione + Becky together again obviously. (Photo via @laurenaquilina)

BONUS: Who knows, Nicki + Taylor could pull a fast one on us all and come out of a limo Sunday night hand in hand. #dreamsquadgoals (Photo via Larry Busacca/Getty)

Who do you want to see Taylor Swift brings from her squad to the MTV VMAs? Let us know in the comments.

(Photo via Jason Merritt/Getty)

*NSYNC Just Reunited (Again) At Justin Timberlake’s Album Release Party

My iTunes library is filled with music from '90s boy band *NSYNC and I'm proud of it. As much as I adore the Backstreet Boys, my stance is firm - *NSYNC will forever be the group that unlocks the romantic feelings in my heart. Fun fact: my mom and sister have core memories of me singing "Every little thing I do, never seems enough for you..." at the top of my lungs.

That's why this '90s baby has been squealing with excitement over *NSYNC's reunion at Justin Timberlake's LA Concert last week and the fact they made another recent appearance to support him! If you're as much of an *NSYNC fan as I am, have no fear because all the details are here!

Did *NSYNC Appear At Justin Timberlake's Album Release Party?

Image via Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake Hosts "EVERYTHING I THOUGHT IT WAS" Album Release Party

OMG, they did! It shouldn't come as a surprise because they've been working hard BTS to surprise fans, but our hearts cannot be still. Held on March 14th at Dan Tana's in West Hollywood, Justin Timberlake's album release party had the spirit of a friendly kickback with close friends, good food, and a DJ set that created amazing vibes.

Did Justin Timberlake Pose With *NSYNC?

Image via Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake Hosts "EVERYTHING I THOUGHT IT WAS" Album Release Party

​Yes! Justin Timberlake was seen posing next to his bandmates Chris Kilpatrick and Lance Bass during his album release party. They looked like they could barely contain their own excitement which makes us feel like they're way past the friendship stage. They're camaraderie feels like a brotherhood at this point. 

What Other Guests Attended Justin Timberlake's Album Release Party?

Image via Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake Hosts "EVERYTHING I THOUGHT IT WAS" Album Release Party

Aside from another amazing *NSYNC reunion, several stars were in the building for Justin Timberlake's album release party!

Image via Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake Hosts "EVERYTHING I THOUGHT IT WAS" Album Release Party

Justin Timberlake was also seen posing with film producer Lena Waithe and actress Cynthia Erivo.

Image via Jerritt Clark/Getty Images for Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake Hosts "EVERYTHING I THOUGHT IT WAS" Album Release Party

Director and photographer Charlotte Rutherford was all smiles next to stylist Savannah Baker.

How Did Justin Timberlake Surprise Concert Goers With An Appearance BY NYSNC?

Image via Theo Wargo / Getty Images

During a portion of his free concert in LA, Justin Timberlake stood onstage as curtains opened behind him to reveal his bandmates JC Chasez, Lance Bass, Joey Fatone, and Chris Kilpatrick singing their hit songs "Gone," "It's Gonna Be Me," and "Bye Bye Bye" much to the crowd's delight.

Kirbie Johnson, host of the Gloss Angeles podcast, was one of many who shared her enthusiasm on Instagram. Towards the end of her caption she wrote, "Whatever brain synapses were firing back when I was 13 were back in full force last night. They sounded AMAZING!"

Chrissy Teigen and John Legend were also in the house, and it seems like they had the best date night ever! She posted a series of videos on Instagram Story and could be seen fangirling while belting *NSYNC's lyrics along with them. John Legend looked just as excited which shows the impact *NSYNC has on people.

Once the performance was over, JT took to Instagram to share a photo of five empty barstools onstage with the caption "That was fun. Let’s do it again soon. 😁."

Does *NSYNC Have a New Song Together?

www.instagram.com

Following the release of "Better Place"for the Trolls Band Together soundtrack, *NSYNC was working on gearing up for the release of their new song together that's featured on Justin Timberlake's upcoming album Everything I Thought It Was. Titled "PARADISE," it features their signature harmony that has a nostalgic, yet modern blend I can see myself listening to a ridiculous amount of times.

Watch Clips From NSYNC's Reunion:

www.youtube.com

*NSYNC Reunion Performance! Watch Justin Timberlake Surprise Crowd With Boy Band

All I'm going to say is that I'm jealous of anyone who got to see *NSYNC perform "PARADISE" in person last night.

When's The Last Time *NYSNC Performed Together?

Image via Scott Gries/ImageDirect

Even though there was a special *NSYNC reunion at last year's VMA awards, Peoplementioned that the group's last live performance was at the 2013 VMAs. That means we'd been living without their beautiful voices for almost a decade! The horror!

If it happens, how would feel about going to the NSYNC reunion tour?

This post has been updated.

Header image via Theo Wargo / Getty Images

new songvmasreunionnsync

6 Crazy "Outer Banks" Opinions That Would Totally Change The Show

I'll admit out of the many teen dramas I've consumed, Outer Banks is one of the most ridiculous. But the insanity surrounding the plot is half the reason it's enjoyable! John B. wrestling an alligator with his bare hands? Kiara getting kidnapped then making a daring escape in her PJ's? John B. and Sarah getting married (kind of) by the power of "the sky, the stars, and the sea" after escaping the SBI?

Considering my favorite fan theory for the future is that Madelyn Cline's Sarah and Rudy Pankow's JJ learn they're secret siblings, I know the crazy train isn't slowing down anytime soon. I took to Reddit to find the wildest Outer Bankshot takes and I was not disappointed. Keep reading to see if you agree with any!

JJ and Kiara Never Should Have Happened

Image via Netflix

While JJ and Kiara is one of the most popular ships on the show, a lot of Outer Banks fans think the "no Pogue-on-Pogue macking" rule from the pilot should have stayed in effect. The individual romances between Kiara and JJ, John B., and Pope make the story really messy, and the fact the show writes Kiara to be with all three of them in the span of three years gives a lot of viewers the ick.

I'll be team #Jiara forever (and literally screamed when The Backseat Lovers' "Kilby Girl" started playing during the motorcycle ride in season 3), but I'll say it would incredibly compelling to see a friend group take care of each other as much as the Pogues do without ever crossing over into romantic territory. That's found family, after all!

Pope Should Have Ditched The Treasure Hunt

Image via Netflix

One Reddit user is convinced that "Pope should’ve focused on his future in school instead of giving everything up to search for treasure." And TBH, I totally agree.

In season 1, Pope has a breakthrough about the hidden treasure in the middle of his scholarship interview. He ditches the scholarship committee to tell the rest of the Pogues, throwing away a crazy educational opportunity. Pope beats himself up for it, and his parents definitely aren't pleased, but at least it meant he got to stay in the show instead of leaving for college, which leads me to...

Outer Banks Should Have Started With The Pogues In Their 20s

Image via Netflix

As one of the only people alive who loves the post-time jump One Tree Hill, I would have loved to see OBX start off with the characters in their 20s (although it looks like that's where Outer Banks season 4 will pick up!). This would eliminate SO MANY problems from the jump because the Pogues wouldn't have to worry about missing school, they'd be more self-sufficient, and instead of being the same old high school drama, it could have provided a commentary on figuring out life in your 20s the same way Friends did.

Rafe Shouldn't Have Any Kind Of Redemption Arc In Outer Banks Season 4

Image via Netflix

Drew Starkey the man that you are. According to one Reddit user, "Rafe should not have a love interest or a redemption arc" like we see in season 3. We spent all of season 1 and season 2 establishing that Rafe (played by Drew) would do anything it took to get what he wanted (including one successful murder and two other attempts?!). He shows next to no remorse for his actions, and exploring his literal psychopathic tendencies would take the show to a whole new level.

Big John Should Never Have Returned

Image via Netflix

John B.'s dad's disappearance is the catalyst for the Pogues' journey at the beginning of Outer Banks, and Big John's return means the story feels somewhat repetitive in the third season, and it undoes a lot of the growth we've seen from John B. Plus, Big John is just SO chaotic, selfish, and dramatic. If he had truly died in season 1, we could have seen John B. wrestle with that finality, and how to cope with loss in the face of finding the treasure and falling in love with Sarah.

And Finally, Outer Banks Should Have Ended After Season 1

Image via Netflix

Outer Banks season 1 was exactly what we needed at the height of the pandemic. It was escapist — both in terms of the beach vacation vibes, but also because the '00s aesthetic took us right back to simpler times — and it had such a wonderfully resolved finale that some fans think nothing has matched it.

Do you agree with any of these Outer Banks opinions? I'm such a romance fan, I don't know what I'd do if the show didn't have JJ and Kiara get together! Check out all the best New TV Shows coming this year for more.

Lead image via Netflix

tvouter banksentertainmentpop culture

​No, Megan Thee Stallion And Justin Timberlake Didn’t Fight At The VMA’s

Think of music videos like tiny movies. Whether they're creative concepts like "Satellite" by Harry Styles or they draw inspo from actual movies Ariana Grande's "thank u, next," they're always creative and they're *always* fun to watch. This year, our favorite artists — including Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, SZA, and Olivia Rodrigo — were nominated for all kinds of awards and ended up taking home some pretty big wins. Keep reading to watch everything that was nominated for "Video of the Year" and to see if your favorite artist won!

Megan Thee Stallion And Justin Timberlake Had A Moment Backstage

www.tiktok.com

I just talk with my hands lol 💁🏽‍♀️see ya next time @Justin Timberlake

Megan Thee Stallion and Justin Timberlake went viral during the awards show for a backstage exchange. While fans jumped to the conclusion that the two artists were fighting, in reality, they were just joking around!

"She had her makeup people there...and they were all doing her up," Chris Kirkpatrick says on a new episode of the Johnny's House podcast. "Justin walks over like, 'Hey do me now.' She turned and looked and realized it was Justin and...freaked out. And she was wagging her finger at him and was like 'No, not like this. I can't meet you like this.'"

The duo ended up taking a picture and filming a TikTok together and are very clearly not fighting. "I just talk with my hands," Megan captioned the video.

Kelsea Ballerini Did The Most Insane Costume Change

www.youtube.com

Kelsea Ballerini - "Penthouse" | 2023 VMAs

We already loved how absolutely adorable Kelsea and Chase Stokes were on the carpet, but this performance totally wowed us! While obviously she looked and sounded gorgeous, the most shocking moment was her INCREDIBLE costume change from her white gown to a shorter black dress. When someone figures out how she did it, *please* let us know!!!

Fall Out Boy Came Out & Everyone's Elder Emo Jumped Out

www.youtube.com

Fall Out Boy - "We Didn't Start The Fire" | 2023 VMAs

Who didn't scream-sing Fall Out Boy when they were younger? Content Editor Haley Sprankle may or may not have played "Sugar We're Goin' Down" during the cake cutting at her wedding. Regardless, their cover of "We Didn't Start The Fire" was so fun!

Shakira Earned The Vanguard Award

www.youtube.com

Shakira - "Hips Don't Lie" / "Objection (Tango)" / "Whenever, Wherever" & More | 2023 VMAs

Though we *do* wish she woulda played "Waka Waka," we've honestly never been let down by a Shakira performance, and we certainly weren't tonight. The "Hips Don't Lie" icon danced the night away on the VMAs stage, showing everyone why she's the Vanguard Award winner tonight!

Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion Slayed "Bongos"

www.youtube.com

Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion - "Bongos" | 2023 VMAs

These baddies bodied their VMA set, to nobody's surprise. In gorgeous blue bodices (a hue we've seen all over runways and street style alike this season), Megan and Cardi brought the heat, dancing their a*ses off. BRB while I try to get my hair to look like that tomorrow!

Olivia Rodrigo Performed "Vampire" and "get him back"

www.youtube.com

Olivia Rodrigo - "vampire" / "get him back" | 2023 VMAs

On the heels of her Gutsalbum drop *and* new music video for "get him back," Olivia Rodrigo took the VMAs stage in New Jersey. Her vocals were stunning, paired with beautiful visuals + choreography. One shocking moment? Fans couldn't tell if she was escorted off stage for real, or if it was a part of the show. Seems as if it was all according to plan, given her cheeky smile and unshaken demeanor, but regardless — we're so glad she's alright!

NSYNC Reunited To Present The First Award Of The Night

www.youtube.com

*NSYNC Presents Taylor Swift w/ Best Pop Award | 2023 VMAs

Boy band OGs, NSYNC reunited Tuesday night to present the award for Best Pop Music Video. Everyone was absolutely gagged to see the quintet on stage together, even though the reunion was rumored for a while. While we didn't wanna say bye, bye, bye to them too soon, we were happy to see Miss Taylor Swift take the stage with her first win of the evening for the "Anti-Hero" music video.

Funny enough, the queen of easter eggs had the audacity to question what this auspicious reunion meant, saying, "They're gonna do something, and I need to know what it is." Oh how the turns have tabled, Tay. 😉

MTV Video Music Awards Nominations

Winners of each category are bolded!

Video of the Year

www.youtube.com

Doja Cat - Attention (Official Video)

Doja Cat, “Attention,” Kemosabe Records / RCA Records

www.youtube.com

Miley Cyrus - Flowers (Official Video)

Miley Cyrus, “Flowers,” Columbia Records

www.youtube.com

Nicki Minaj - Super Freaky Girl (Official Music Video)

Nicki Minaj, “Super Freaky Girl,” Republic Records

www.youtube.com

Olivia Rodrigo - vampire (Official Video)

Olivia Rodrigo, “vampire,” Geffen Records

www.youtube.com

Sam Smith, Kim Petras - Unholy (Official Music Video)

Sam Smith and Kim Petras, “Unholy,” Capitol Records

www.youtube.com

SZA - Kill Bill (Official Video)

SZA, “Kill Bill,” Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records

www.youtube.com

Taylor Swift - Anti-Hero (Official Music Video)

Taylor Swift, “Anti-Hero,” Republic Records

Artist of the Year

  • Beyoncé, Parkwood Entertainment / Columbia Records
  • Doja Cat, Kemosabe Records / RCA Records
  • KAROL G, Interscope Records
  • Nicki Minaj, Republic Records
  • Shakira, Sony Music US Latin
  • Taylor Swift, Republic Records

Song of the Year

  • Miley Cyrus, “Flowers,” Columbia Records
  • Olivia Rodrigo, “vampire,” Geffen Records
  • Rema and Selena Gomez, “Calm Down,” Mavin Global Holdings Ltd / Jonzing World Entertainment / SMG Music / Interscope Records
  • Sam Smith and Kim Petras, “Unholy,” Capitol Records
  • Steve Lacy, “Bad Habit,” L-M Records / RCA Records
  • SZA, “Kill Bill,” Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records Records
  • Taylor Swift, “Anti-Hero,” Republic Records

Best New Artist

  • GloRilla – CMG / Interscope Records
  • Ice Spice – 10K Projects / Capitol Records
  • Kaliii – Atlantic Records
  • Peso Pluma – Double P Records
  • PinkPantheress – 300 Entertainment
  • Reneé Rapp – Interscope Records

Push Performance of the Year

  • August 2022: Saucy Santana, “Booty,” Arena Records / RCA Records
  • September 2022: Stephen Sanchez, “Until I Found You," Mercury Records / Republic Records
  • October 2022: JVKE, “golden hour,” AWAL
  • November 2022: Flo Milli, “Conceited,” ’94 Sounds / RCA Records
  • December 2022: Reneé Rapp, “Colorado,” Interscope Records
  • January 2023: Sam Ryder, “All The Way Over,” Elektra Entertainment
  • February 2023: Armani White, “GOATED,” Def Jam
  • March 2023: FLETCHER, “Becky’s So Hot,” Capitol Records
  • April 2023: TOMORROW X TOGETHER, “Sugar Rush Ride,” BIGHIT MUSIC / Republic Records
  • May 2023: Ice Spice, “Princess Diana,” Heavy On It / 10K Projects / Capitol Records
  • June 2023: FLO, “Losing You,” Uptown/Republic Records
  • July 2023: Lauren Spencer Smith, “That Part,” Island Records

Best Collaboration

  • David Guetta & Bebe Rexha, “I’m Good (Blue),” Warner Records
  • Post Malone, Doja Cat, “I Like You (A Happier Song),” Mercury Records / Republic Records
  • Diddy feat. Bryson Tiller, Ashanti and Yung Miami, “Gotta Move On,” Motown Records
  • KAROL G, Shakira, “TQG” Universal Music Latino
  • Metro Boomin with The Weeknd, 21 Savage, and Diddy, “Creepin’ (Remix),” Boominati / Republic Records
  • Rema and Selena Gomez, “Calm Down,” Mavin Global Holdings Ltd / Jonzing World Entertainment / SMG Music / Interscope Records

www.youtube.com

Dua Lipa - Dance The Night (From Barbie The Album) [Official Music Video]

Best Pop

  • Demi Lovato, “Swine,” Island Records
  • Dua Lipa, “Dance the Night (From Barbie the Album),” Atlantic Records
  • Ed Sheeran, “Eyes Closed,” Atlantic Records
  • Miley Cyrus, “Flowers,” Columbia Records
  • Olivia Rodrigo, “vampire,” Geffen Records
  • P!NK, “TRUSTFALL,” RCA Records
  • Taylor Swift, “Anti-Hero,” Republic Records

Best Hip-Hop

  • Diddy feat. Bryson Tiller, Ashanti, and Yung Miami, “Gotta Move On,” Motown Records
  • DJ Khaled feat. Drake and Lil Baby, “STAYING ALIVE,” We The Best / Epic Records
  • GloRilla and Cardi B, “Tomorrow 2," CMG / Interscope Records
  • Lil Uzi Vert, “Just Wanna Rock,” Atlantic Records / Generation Now
  • Lil Wayne feat. Swizz Beatz and DMX, “Kant Nobody,” Young Money Records
  • Metro Boomin feat. Future, “Superhero (Heroes and Villains),” Boominati / Republic Records
  • Nicki Minaj, “Super Freaky Girl,” Republic Records

Best R&B

  • Alicia Keys feat. Lucky Daye, “Stay,” RCA Records
  • Chlöe feat. Chris Brown, “How Does It Feel,” Parkwood Entertainment / Columbia
  • Metro Boomin with the Weeknd, 21 Savage, and Diddy, “Creepin’ (Remix),” Boominati / Republic Records
  • SZA, “Shirt,” Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records
  • Toosii, “Favorite Song,” South Coast Music Group / Capitol Records
  • Yung Bleu & Nicki Minaj, “Love in the Way,” Empire Distribution

Best Alternative

  • blink-182, “EDGING,” Columbia Records
  • boygenius, “the film,” Interscope Records
  • Fall Out Boy, “Hold Me Like a Grudge,” Fueled By Ramen
  • Lana Del Rey feat. Jon Batiste, “Candy Necklace,” Interscope Records
  • Paramore, “This Is Why,” Atlantic Records
  • Thirty Seconds to Mars, “Stuck,” Concord Records / Concord

Best Rock

  • Foo Fighters, “The Teacher,” RCA Records
  • Linkin Park, “Lost (Original Version),” Warner Records
  • Red Hot Chili Peppers, “Tippa My Tongue,” Warner Records
  • Måneskin, “THE LONELIEST,” Arista Records
  • Metallica, "Lux Æterna,” Blackened Recordings
  • Muse, “You Make Me Feel Like It’s Halloween,” Warner Records

Best Latin

  • Anitta, “Funk Rave,” Republic Records
  • Bad Bunny, “WHERE SHE GOES,” Rimas Entertainment
  • Eslabon Armado and Peso Pluma, “Ella Baila Sola,” DEL Records Inc. / Prajin Parlay, Inc. Grupo Frontera
  • Bad Bunny, “un x100to,” Rimas Entertainment
  • KAROL G, Shakira, “TQG,” Universal Music Latino
  • ROSALÍA, “DESPECHÁ,” Columbia Records
  • Shakira, “Acróstico,” Sony Music US Latin

www.youtube.com

BLACKPINK - ‘Pink Venom’ M/V

Best K-Pop

  • aespa, “Girls,” SM ENTERTAINMENT Co., Ltd.
  • BLACKPINK, “Pink Venom,” YG Entertainment / Interscope Records
  • FIFTY FIFTY, “Cupid,” ATTRAKT / Warner Records
  • SEVENTEEN, “Super,” HYBE / Geffen Records
  • Stray Kids, "S-Class,” JYP / Republic
  • TOMORROW X TOGETHER, “Sugar Rush Ride,” BIGHIT MUSIC / Republic Records

Best Afrobeats

  • Ayra Starr, “Rush,” Mavin Global Holdings
  • Burna Boy, “It’s Plenty,” Atlantic Records / Spaceship Entertainment Ltd.
  • Davido feat. Musa Keys, “UNAVAILABLE,” Sony Music U.K. / RCA Records
  • Fireboy DML and Asake, ”Bandana,” Empire Distribution
  • Libianca, “People,” Sony Music U.K. / RCA Records
  • Rema and Selena Gomez, “Calm Down,” Mavin Global Holdings Ltd / Jonzing World Entertainment / SMG Music / Interscope Records
  • Wizkid feat. Ayra Starr, “2 Sugar,” Starboy / RCA Records

Video for Good

  • Alicia Keys, "If I Ain’t Got You (Orchestral),” NETFLIX
  • Bad Bunny, “El Apagón – Aquí Vive Gente,” Rimas Entertainment
  • Demi Lovato, “Swine,” Island Records
  • Dove Cameron, “Breakfast,” Columbia Records
  • Imagine Dragons, “Crushed,” KIDinaKORNER / Interscope Records
  • Maluma, “La Reina,” Sony Music US Latin

Best Direction

  • Doja Cat, “Attention,” Kemosabe Records / RCA Records, Directed by Tanu Muiño
  • Drake, “Falling Back,” OVO/Republic Records, Director X (Julien Christian Lutz)
  • Kendrick Lamar, “Count Me Out,” pgLang / Top Dawg Entertainment / Aftermath / Interscope Records, Directed by Dave Free & Kendrick Lamar
  • Megan Thee Stallion, “Her,” 300 Entertainment, Directed by Colin Tilley
  • Sam Smith and Kim Petras, “Unholy,” Capitol Records, Directed by Floria Sigismondi
  • SZA, “Kill Bill,” Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records, Directed by Christian Breslauer
  • Taylor Swift, “Anti-Hero,” Republic Records, Directed by Taylor Swift

Best Cinematography

  • Adele, “I Drink Wine,” Columbia Records, Cinematography by Adam Newport-Berra
  • Ed Sheeran, “Eyes Closed,” Atlantic Records, Cinematography by Natasha Baier
  • Janelle Monae, “Lipstick Lover,” Atlantic Records, Cinematography by Allison Anderson
  • Kendrick Lamar, “Count Me Out,” pgLang / Top Dawg Entertainment / Aftermath / Interscope Records, Cinematography by Adam Newport-Berra
  • Miley Cyrus, “Flowers,” Columbia Records, Cinematography by Marcell Rev
  • Olivia Rodrigo, “vampire,” Geffen Records, Cinematography by Russ Fraser
  • Taylor Swift, “Anti-Hero,” Republic Records, Cinematography by Rina Yang

Best Visual Effects

  • Fall Out Boy, “Love From the Other Side,” Fueled By Ramen, Visual Effects by Thomas Bailey and Josh Shaffner
  • Harry Styles, “Music for a Sushi Restaurant,” Columbia Records, Visual Effects by Chelsea Delfino and Black Kite Studios
  • Melanie Martinez, “VOID,” Atlantic Records, Visual Effects by Carbon
  • Nicki Minaj, “Super Freaky Girl,” Republic Records, Visual Effects by Max Colt and Sergio Mashevskyi
  • Sam Smith and Kim Petras, “Unholy,” Capitol Records, Visual Effects by Max Colt / FRENDER
  • Taylor Swift, “Anti-Hero,” Republic Records, Visual Effects by Parliament

Best Choreography

  • BLACKPINK, “Pink Venom,” YG Entertainment / Interscope Records, Choreography by Kiel Tutin, Sienna Lalau, Lee Jung (YGX), Taryn Cheng (YGX)
  • Dua Lipa, “Dance the Night (From Barbie the Album),” Atlantic Records, Choreography by Charm LaDonna
  • Jonas Brothers, “Waffle House,” Republic Records, Choreography by Jerry Reece
  • Megan Thee Stallion, “Her,” 300 Entertainment, Choreography by Sean Bankhead
  • Panic! at the Disco, “Middle of a Breakup,” Fueled By Ramen, Choreography by Monika Felice Smith
  • Sam Smith and Kim Petras, “Unholy,” Capitol Records, Choreography by (LA)HORDE, Marine Brutti, Jonathan Debrouwer, Arthur Harel

www.youtube.com

boygenius - the film

Best Art Direction

  • boygenius, “the film,” Interscope Records, Art Direction by Jen Dunlap
  • BLACKPINK, “Pink Venom,” YG Entertainment / Interscope Records, Art Direction by Seo Hyun Seung (GIGANT)
  • Doja Cat, “Attention,” Kemosabe Records / RCA Records, Art Direction by Spencer Graves
  • Lana Del Rey feat. Jon Batiste, “Candy Necklace,” Interscope Records, Art Direction by Brandon Mendez
  • Megan Thee Stallion, “Her,” 300 Entertainment, Art Direction by Niko Philipides
  • SZA, “Shirt,” Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records, Art Direction by Kate Bunch

Best Editing

  • BLACKPINK, “Pink Venom,” YG Entertainment / Interscope Records, Editing by Seo Hyun Seung (GIGANT)
  • Kendrick Lamar, “Rich Spirit,” pgLang / Top Dawg Entertainment / Aftermath / Interscope Records, Edited by Grason Caldwell
  • Miley Cyrus, “River,” Columbia Records, Edited by Brandan Walter
  • Olivia Rodrigo, “vampire,” Geffen Records, Edited by Sofia Kerpan and David Checel
  • SZA, “Kill Bill,” Top Dawg Entertainment / RCA Records, Edited by Luis Caraza Peimbert
  • Taylor Swift, “Anti-Hero,” Republic Records, Edited by Chancler Haynes

Which of the VMAs 2023 nominees do you hope snags an award? Did your favorites get snubbed? Let us know in the comments!

Lead image via Jason Kempin / Staff

musicpop cultureentertainmentawardsolivia rodrigobeyoncetaylor swiftszadoja catblackpinked sheeranmiley cyrusnicki minajsam smithkim petraskarol gdua lipashakiraselena gomezice spicerenee rappjonas brotherscardi bpinkchloealicia keyschloe baileyparamorelana del rayjon batistedemi lovatoadelemegan thee stallionvmas

Mariska Hargitay’s Powerful “Me Too” Message Proves She’s Olivia Benson IRL

Mariska Hargitay is the woman of the hour anywhere she goes, with her iconic Law & Order: SVUrole as Olivia Benson under her belt for the last 25 years. The character is an absolute advocate to women — and assault victims of any gender — through her words, actions, and powerful convictions of each perpetrator on the show. She takes great care with her victims and pursues perpetrators with fervor, and slowly as you watch the show..the line blurs between Olivia and Mariska.

This isn't anything new — just recently Mariska literally stopped production on the show to help a child (who mistook her for an actual police officer) find her mom. It's just who Mariska is. She walks the walk and talks the talk — including during her speech at Variety's Power of Women's Power of Women event.

Image via NBC Universal

As a Power of Women honoree, Mariska was recognized in regards to her work as an advocate for sexual assault survivors. She took the stage and used her platform to discuss rape and assault conviction reversals, shining a light on the recent overturned ruling in Harvey Weinstein's landmark NYC case. Here's what she said:

Today I want to talk about reversing convictions, and more specifically I want to talk to you about how impossible it is to reverse mine. It’s impossible to reverse my conviction that survivors matter. It is impossible to reverse my conviction that what happens to us matters, and that our society must respond to survivors with a more a compassionate, holistically, deeper, and more nuanced understanding of what healing means.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that after a trauma, survivors can reclaim lives of hope, of possibility, of audacious risk, beautiful intimacy, and glorious, glorious abundant joy. And I stand before you as evidence of that statement.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that we must listen to survivors as experts on what justice means. It is extraordinary how little their voices are consulted, let alone incorporated, in the process of deciding how to repair harm. Justice is not a one-size-fits-all journey.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that patriarchal impunity has to end. Patriarchal impunity is when a male-dominated system exempts perpetrators from punishment. Studies show that only 20% of all rape cases in the U.S. are reported to the police, and that between 5 and 0% of all rapes result in a guilty plea or a conviction. So why do 80% of victims not report? Because they're met with a system that grants impunity to perpetrators; a system that blames victims; a system that accepts only those victims who are experienced as "real" rape; a system that completely misunderstands the neurobiology of trauma, which causes behavior in women that doesn't fit the picture of how a "real victim" would act.

Is that change needed that victims should just pull themselves together? Just buck up and report anyway? No. No, it's the system that receives them that needs to change

It is impossible to reverse my conviction — and the conviction of my extraordinary team, The Joyful Heart — that the backlog of untested rape kits can be brought to zero; that the testing of all new kits must be mandated; that we need a statewide kit tracking system; and that survivors have the right to access the status of their kits.

It is impossible to reverse my conviction that grammar — yes, grammar — that we use when we speak about rape must change. In the sentence, "A woman is raped," there's a crime and there's a victim, but there's no perpetrator. Where's the perpetrator? Where is he? Statistically, as we know, most likely he's walking free. He's so free that he doesn't even appear in the language about the crime that he committed. Is that not extraordinary? It's extraordinary that in the very grammar, the perpetrator goes free. Reintroducing perpetrators in the language of rape will make some very unwieldy grammar, but that's the nature of change. It's unwieldy, it's messy, it's uncomfortable, but it's necessary.

Image via NBC Universal

Hargitay continued on in her prolific speech to describe that rape shouldn't be considered a "crime of passion" because it's "not simply the next step in the trajectory of his passion" when a man takes a consensual hookup too far and assaults a woman against her will. She stated that it's "an exercise of power," doubling down that the language we use is important.

The speech went on to address that rape is both about power and control, as a "construct" that was "built, and assembled, and reinforced over time." She noted that there are people with these positions of power — and she specifically called out those in the entertainment industry — that could make a difference and aligned themselves to victims and survivors.

After this and some other remarks, Hargitay specifically called out the Weinstein conviction reversal. She said:

I do want to say something about the Harvey Weinstein conviction, specifically about the reason that it was overturned: too many women's voices. Too many women's voices were allowed to speak. Hallelujah! Amen! I can't imagine anything more beautiful than that. The Daily podcast episode talked about how it was so risky for the prosecution to have that many women testify. Risky to let women speak? You're damn right it is!

Too many women speaking brings change. Too many women speaking shakes the establishment. Too many women means we get listened to more, and people might actually hear what we have to say. Look what happened when women started saying just two words, right? Me too — just as an example — a tidal wave of change. Me too.

And then of course, there was the response: the Me Too Movement. The backlash. The examination of whether the changes that have come are lasting, or are even positive. Of course there's a backlash! What did they expect? For women to speak repeatedly, loudly, together, with a purpose — for there to be no backlash? The backlash is evidence of how powerful those voices were, how powerful those voices ARE.

Watch Mariska Hargitay's Full Speech Here

www.youtube.com

Mariska Hargitay's Gets Emotional as She Thanks Her Support System and the Women Around Her

Turns out that your TV heroes really can be your IRL heroes after all. Long live Olivia Benson! Long live Mariska Hargitay!

Follow us on Facebook for more celebrity and pop culture news.

Header image via NBC Universal

entertainmentcelebrity newstvpop culturecelebrityCelebrity

Here’s When You Can Watch “Emily in Paris” Season 4

After Emily in Paris season 3 dropped on Netflix in December of 2022, we were hoping to get the fourth installment of the hit show in 2023. But production halted when the WGA writers' strike, then the SAG-AFTRA actors' strike went to affect, and our beloved cast and crew campaigned for better wages and industry protection. But with the end of the writers' strike, and new SAG negotiations, Emily in Paris season 4 finally began production in February 2024 — and I can already tell you there's sure to be plenty of drama and French fashion this time around.

Not only will we see Emily in Paris (see what I did there?!) but she's also pulling an Audrey Hepburn and taking a little Roman Holiday. That's right — our favorite Parisians are heading to Italy! If that doesn't sound like a dreamy comfort show then I don't know what does. Here's everything we know about the upcoming season of your favorite TV brain candy!!

Is Emily in Paris season 4 coming soon?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Via Variety, Emily in Paris season 4 began production in Paris the week of January 15! "Did someone say Saison Quatre?!" Lily Collins says in her Instagram post announcing production. "Finally reunited with my @emilyinparis fam back in Paris and it feels so good. Although, I may need to brush up on my selfie skills for Emily’s sake…"

Now the wait is over! According to the official announcementfor Emily in Paris, we know part one drops on Netflix August 15, followed by part 2 on September 12. I've been impatiently waiting for this considering we didn't know how filming would be impacted by things like the WGA writers strike!

Is Emily in Paris filmed in Paris?

Image via Lily Collins/Instagram

Yes, Emily in Paris is filmed on location in Paris! We got our first look at Emily in Paris season 4 when Lily Collins and Ashley Park were seen filming in the City of Love (via Daily Mail). The costumes for the series are still as bold and bright as ever, with Ashley's Mindy wearing cobalt and metallic boots, and Lily's Emily dressed head-to-toe in lemon yellow. I can't wait to see what these best friends get up to this season! Check out our Paris travel recommendations to live out your own Emily in Paris dreams ;).

On April 27, Lily Collins confirmed Emily in Paris season 4 had wrapped its France shoot and that the cast & crew have swapped the City of Love for the Eternal City! "When you’re the first ones on the dance floor at the Paris wrap party. Next stop: Rome!" she says on Instagram. Late spring is literally the perfect time to film in Italy and I just know this season is going to give me more wanderlust than ever before. I need gelato!

What's Emily In Paris season 4 about?

Image via Netflix

Season 3 left us with a huge cliffhanger: Alfie breaks up with Emily, Camille learns she's pregnant with Gabriel's baby, Benoit's "Mon Soleil" has been chosen for the Eurovision Song Contest, and Emily and Gabriel realize they've been in love with each other the whole time. Whew.

Emily in Paris season 4 will have a ton of cliffhangers to bring full circle, and a bunch of damage that all the characters need to heal. We know from the Netflix TUDUM fan event that we might also see Emily have to deal with an ultimatum head-on, as well as an unexpected twist. Plus, it looks like she's heading on a "Roman holiday," according to lead actress Lily Collins. We'll take any nod to an Audrey Hepburn movie, please and thank you!

Is Alfie coming back in season 4 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Netflix

We don't have OFFICIAL word on whether Alfie (played by Lucien Laviscount) will return for Emily in Paris season 4, but we're hoping for his sake that he gets some closure. Lucien wants to come back as well! "[The dream is] to keep this gravy train going and just to kind of really live in this world a little bit longer," he says in an interview with Elle. " The writers on the show and the creators behind it and everyone that comes into contact with it is so amazing and fantastic. Their minds [have] way, way, way, way surpassed mine. So, yeah. I’ll let them do their thing.”

Who else is in the Emily in Paris season 4 cast?

Image via Netflix

We can expect the rest of the cast — Lily Collins as Emily, Lucas Bravo as Gabriel, Ashley Park as Mindy, Camille Razat as Camille, Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu as Sylvie, Samuel Arnold as Julian, and Bruno Gouery as Luc — to return.

Will there be a season 5 of Emily in Paris?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

It looks like Emily in Paris season 4 will not be the final season, according to creator Darren Star. “There’s a lot more story to tell here and we’re not wrapping things up anytime soon,” Star tells Elle. “And also hopefully season four isn’t the end either. I feel like we’re all creatively feeling like we’re in the middle of something not heading towards the end.”

Darren also told Deadline season 4 is "not necessarily conceived as a final chapter. I think like every other show, it’s a rich ensemble. There’s no end in sight until everybody feels like it’s time to end. And I don’t think this show is limited by a number of seasons, I think it’s limited by everybody’s enthusiasm and excitement about doing it and telling stories about these characters."

We'll take as many seasons of Emily in Paris as they'll give us!!

What has the cast said about Emily in Paris season 4?

Image via Marie Etchegoyen/Netflix

Lucas Bravo told People he's excited for a coming-of-age for Gabriel. "When you start a character, then there's a year where you experience the world and you mature, you become another person and you come back and it's exactly the day you left off," he says. "I'm happy that in season four I'll be able to bring more of what I became and what I've experienced in the past four years."

Even though Lily Collins is now an executive producer, she doesn't want to know TOO much about the future of the show. “Darren and I speak, on occasion, about where he’s thinking of going, but he also doesn’t wanna spoil too much for me because there is a fine line,” she tells Collider. “I don’t wanna know everything because I want to be led with the writing, but I am also curious because, as a producer wanting to celebrate the other characters, I’m very curious to see what their trajectories are."

What happened at the end of Emily in Paris season 3?

Image via Netflix

To be fully prepared for Emily in Paris season 4, it's important to remember just what happened during season 3! The junior season was a bumpy ride for Emily, and it ends with the craziest finale yet. After Camille and Gabriel decide to get married, Camille stops the wedding, saying she knows Gabriel is in love with Emily instead of her. This declaration leads Alfie to break up with our leading lady because he refuses to be her second choice (and honestly, I respect it). That's not the only shocker because Camille also reveals that she's pregnant with Gabriel's child, which comes as a surprise to everyone. Meanwhile, Mindy learns Benoit has submitted a song (specifically "Mon Soleil") to the Eurovision Song Contest and Laurent has his heart set on opening a club in Paris.

Are you excited for Emily in Paris Season 4? Give us your craziest theory in the comments, and check out our Facebook for more pop culture news. Read up on how This Emily In Paris Theory Could Be Why Emily And Gabriel Aren’t Together (Yet).

Lead image via Netflix.

This post has been updated.

tv showemily in parispop cultureentertainmenttv