From Cosmopolitan · Samantha Olson · · 1m 10s
VMAs Bring Back Chaos
The VMAs need chaos to reignite pop culture's messy magic.
In brief
The VMAs need chaos to reignite pop culture's messy magic. The VMAs should return to chaotic pop culture moments to inspire creativity and community. Originally reported by Cosmopolitan.
My First Vmas Memory
At age seven, I watched my sister buy a tank top saying 'I’d rather be at the VMAs' in New York City.
“I’d rather be at the VMAs”
The 2009 Vmas Moment
Kanye West’s 'I’ma let you finish' with Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga’s bloody 'Paparazzi' performance changed my life.
“I’ma let you finish”
Vmas Lost Their Chaos
The 2026 VMAs lacked the messy moments that once pushed pop culture forward, like Diana Ross jiggling Lil Kim’s exposed breast.
“Diana Ross jiggling Lil Kim’s exposed breast”
New-Gen Stars Try Chaos
Chappell Roan wore a medieval Joan of Arc-inspired look in 2024, while Addison Rae rebranded from TikTok dancer to Grammy nominee.
“Joan of Arc”
The 2026 Vmas Viewership
The 2026 VMAs earned 5.5 million viewers, down from 12.4 million in 2011, as internet platforms grew.
“5.5 million viewers”
Why Vmas Need Chaos
The VMAs should embrace raw, messy moments to inspire Halloween costumes and group chats, not chase legacy media's glory days.
The one thing
The VMAs should return to chaotic pop culture moments to inspire creativity and community.
