Huge music awards ceremony AXED as massive acts pull out amid Gaza conflict
IT’S been one of the most fun and provocative awards ceremonies for 28 years.
But this year the MTV EMAs have been dramatically axed just two weeks before they were due to take place in Paris.
The night is usually a hot-bed of the world’s biggest stars – with Beyonce, Dua Lipa and Rita Ora all performing at the glitzy ceremony over the years.
This year David Guetta, Anne-Marie and K-Pop superstar Jung Kook were all set to take to the stage.
But now the night has been scrapped due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
A source said: “It came as a huge shock to everyone, the decision was beyond last minute but as it got closer and closer to show day it became clear more and more celebs just wouldn’t be turning up. Everyone is gutted.”
It’s thought US based celebs were refusing to take part in the boozy shin-dig amid a backdrop of the divisive war in Gaza and Israel.
In a statement released to The Sun, MTV said: “Given the volatility of world events, we have decided not to move forward with the 2023 MTV EMAs out of an abundance of caution for the thousands of employees, crew members, artists, fans, and partners who travel from all corners of the world to bring the show to life.
The MTV EMAs are an annual celebration of global music. As we watch the devastating events in Israel and Gaza continue to unfold, this does not feel like a moment for a global celebration. With thousands of lives already lost, it is a moment of mourning.
We look forward to hosting the MTV EMAs again in November of 2024.”
Nominations for the awards were only revealed a couple of weeks ago.
Superstar Taylor Swift lead the pack with seven nominations thanks to her mega-hit Anti-Hero.
Her nominations include top gongs, Best Artist, Best Video and Best Song.
Olivia Rodrigo and SZA both bagged themselves six nominations.
Meanwhile, Doja Cat, Måneskin, Miley Cyrus and Nicki Minaj all have four nominations.