Jack Antonoff has taken to social media to clarify claims surrounding an incident during Katy Perry's performance at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs), held on September 11. As Perry was awarded the Video Vanguard Award, she captivated the audience with a medley of her biggest hits, alongside songs from her upcoming album, '143'. Among the standout tracks performed were 'E.T.', 'I Kissed A Girl', and her latest single, 'Lifelines'.
During Perry's performance, a segment of the audience noticed Antonoff seemingly inserting what many believed to be a pair of Airpods into his ears while standing next to Taylor Swift and actress Margaret Qualley. This moment quickly sparked outrage across social media, with one fan voicing their disgust on Twitter, which ignited a short-lived controversy.
In response to the backlash, Antonoff clarified via Twitter that the items he used were not Airpods but rather blue 'Hero' brand earplugs, intended to protect his hearing. With a touch of humor, he acknowledged the embarrassment of using earplugs not just at loud concerts but also while flying and even during sleep. Antonoff remarked, "I do not only use them when in 100 plus DB environments... it is humiliating to admit."
He expressed gratitude for the media attention this incident garnered, calling focus to an important issue surrounding earplug use, which he humorously considered humiliating for his family.
This incident follows a busy summer for Antonoff, who made a surprise appearance at Taylor Swift's final 'Eras' show in London and collaborated with Sabrina Carpenter on a new track at the Grammy Museum. Meanwhile, Perry's acceptance speech at the VMAs reflected on her illustrious career, thanking her supporters and emphasizing her gratitude towards her LGBTQ+ fans. Perry's new album, '143', is set for release on September 20, 2024, featuring the lead single, 'Woman's World'. Pre-order here.
For more details about the VMAs and performances, visit NME.