The MTV Awards landed in Manchester for the first time in their 30-year history on Sunday night, but surprisingly, the event felt less “Mancunian” than expected.
Local icons like Take That, Aitch, and Liam Gallagher were notably absent, even though Gallagher took home the award for best rock star.
Organizers did incorporate a few subtle nods to Manchester’s unique culture: the stage was framed with the iconic black and yellow stripes reminiscent of Factory Records, and New Order’s “Blue Monday” played each time nominees were announced.
However, the show primarily focused on international talent, shining a spotlight on artists from Mexico, South Korea, South Africa, and the United States.
Taylor Swift dominated the evening, winning best artist and video of the year—two of the night’s most coveted awards.
Despite her wins, Swift appeared only by video, opting to spend her evening watching her boyfriend, NFL star Travis Kelce, lead the Kansas City Chiefs to victory against the Denver Broncos.
Although Swift was absent, other stars graced the red carpet and the stage, bringing their own unique energy to the night.
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