Jack Antonoff has recently addressed a series of misunderstandings stemming from the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) held on September 11. The event, which saw Katy Perry honored with the Video Vanguard Award, featured her performing a medley of past hits alongside tracks from her upcoming album, '143'.
One particular moment involving Antonoff gained substantial public attention when he was spotted next to Taylor Swift and actress Margaret Qualley, seemingly inserting what appeared to be AirPods into his ears. This incident quickly sparked a wave of speculation and backlash across social media platforms, sparking concern among fans regarding his actions. A viral post on Twitter significantly intensified the controversy, leading to extensive public scrutiny of Antonoff's actions.
In response to the uproar, Antonoff released a statement clarifying that what he was using were not AirPods, but rather blue 'Hero' brand earplugs designed for hearing protection. He acknowledged that using earplugs in loud environments can feel awkward and admitted, "It is humiliating to admit" that he depends on them. Antonoff highlighted the importance of normalizing discussions about earplug usage, a topic he finds sensitive within his family.
This incident follows a busy summer for Antonoff, including an unanticipated appearance at Taylor Swift's 'Eras' tour finale in London and a collaboration with Sabrina Carpenter at the Grammy Museum. Meanwhile, Perry’s VMAs acceptance speech underscored her career milestones as she expressed her gratitude particularly towards her loyal fans in the LGBTQ+ community. All eyes are now on Perry’s anticipated album '143', set to release on September 20, 2024, featuring her lead single, 'Woman's World'. For more coverage of the VMAs performances, visit NME.
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