Katy Perry delivers defiant speech at 2024 VMAs after accepting Video Vanguard Award

Katy Perry gave a bold speech while accepting the MTV Video Vanguard Award at the 2024 VMAs, addressing her detractors and encouraging fellow artists to block out negativity. During her acceptance speech, Perry urged artists to safeguard their mental health by turning off social media, stating, “There are no decade-long accidents.” She continued, “Do whatever it takes to stay true to yourself and true to your art. Turn off social media, safeguard your mental health. Pause. Touch grass.”

The speech followed Perry’s performance of a medley of hits, including “E.T.,” “California Gurls,” and “I Kissed a Girl,” alongside tracks from her upcoming album 143, which is set to release on September 20. Special guest Doechii joined her on stage for the song “I’m His, He’s Mine.”

Perry also expressed her gratitude to her team, family, and fans, including her husband Orlando Bloom and their daughter Daisy. She humorously thanked Bloom for "doing the dishes," a reference to a recent interview where she joked about rewarding men for household chores.

Her speech, introduced by Bloom, emphasized Perry’s longevity in the music industry, reflecting on the challenges artists, especially women, face. She concluded by praising today’s young artists for their confidence and authenticity.