Jack Antonoff has come under fire for an act perceived as dismissive during Katy Perry’s turn at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards. Viewers noticed Antonoff inserting earplugs just as Perry began her performance at UBS Arena in New York, sparking widespread criticism.
Many of Perry’s followers condemned Antonoff’s actions, describing them as derogatory. Given the strained relations between Antonoff and Perry, where Antonoff previously branded Perry’s music as lesser than Taylor Swift’s—another artist he frequently works with—his latest act was largely seen as disrespectful.
This incident echoed a moment from seven years earlier when Antonoff was similarly called out for eating a banana during Perry’s speech at the 2017 MTV VMAs. Despite this pattern, some defend Antonoff, arguing that he might have used the earplugs simply to protect his hearing, a usual precaution for professionals regularly exposed to high decibel levels.
Nonetheless, Perry’s show was a success, highlighted by a medley of her biggest hits and the presentation of the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. Despite her achievement, the discussion about Antonoff’s behavior took some attention away from her moment.
Taylor Swift, another pop powerhouse and Antonoff’s collaborator, was also present and visibly enjoyed Perry’s performance, indicating that any past issues between Swift and Perry no longer lingered, as evidenced by Swift’s enthusiastic support during the event.
The debate about Antonoff’s motives continues, though it’s suggested that his actions might not be as controversial as assumed. As of now, Antonoff’s representatives haven’t issued any statements regarding the incident.
Meanwhile, in other news, Justin Timberlake has negotiated a plea agreement in his DWI case, agreeing to plead guilty to a traffic violation and pay a fine, with the DWI charge being dismissed. The specific fine amount will be decided at a hearing set for Friday.
