The 2023 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) may have been canceled due to the “volatility of world events,” but that didn’t stop global pop sensation Taylor Swift from emerging as a big winner. The highly anticipated event, scheduled to take place in Paris, France, on Sunday, November 5, was called off by MTV organizers last month amidst ongoing global conflicts, marking the first cancellation in the award show’s history since its inception in 1994.
In an effort to honor fans who had cast their votes for their favorite artists and music, MTV executives revealed the list of winners on Sunday night.
Swift, known for her hit songs such as “Shake It Off,” scooped up three prestigious awards, making her one of the night’s standout performers. She was named “Best Artist,” her “The Eras Tour” secured “Best Live,” and her music video for “Anti-Hero” was recognized as the “Best Video.”
Another big winner of the evening was BTS star Jungkook, who took home two awards, “Best K-Pop” and “Best Song” for “Seven” featuring Latto.
The roster of award recipients also included Lana Del Rey, honored with “Best Alternative,” Nicki Minaj for “Best Hip Hop,” and Billie Eilish, who clinched the “Best Pop” award.
MTV organizers announced the awards’ cancellation in October, expressing their decision as an “abundance of caution” for the safety and well-being of the numerous employees, crew members, artists, fans, and partners involved in the event. The decision to cancel this year’s ceremony was influenced by the ongoing “volatility of world events,” particularly the conflicts in the Middle East.
“Voting is continuing, and the winning artists will receive their MTV EMA Awards. We look forward to hosting the MTV EMAs again in November of 2024,” the organizers declared in their statement.
Despite the cancellation, this year’s MTV EMAs have still managed to celebrate the music industry’s brightest stars and recognize the unwavering support of fans around the world.
