At the MTV Video Music Awards, Perry secured the title for the Most Iconic Performance for her chart-topping hit “Roar.” She triumphed over a formidable list of fellow nominees, including Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, Madonna, Taylor Swift, and Eminem.

On top of that, the pop star accepted the prestigious 2024 Video Vanguard Award and delivered an electrifying medley of her greatest hits, including “Dark Horse,” “E.T.,” “I’m His, He’s Mine” featuring Doechii, “California Gurls,” and “I Kissed a Girl.”

Sporting a unique outfit—a nude boob tube paired with a metallic wrap around her waist—Perry opened her set with “Dark Horse,” making a dramatic entrance by descending on an invisible rope.

Later, Doechii joined her for a sultry performance, during which the camera zoomed in on her romantic partner, actor Orlando Bloom. His serious expression while watching Perry drew attention before he eventually smiled and applauded as the audience roared.

When Perry performed “California Gurls,” the camera caught Bloom again—this time showing him cringe slightly while trying to dance along to her upbeat performance.

In a final theatrical display, Perry donned butterfly wings for her renditions of “I Kissed a Girl” and “Firework,” where Bloom was seen standing, clapping, and appearing to sing along with the rest of the crowd.

Viewers who caught Perry’s performance took to YouTube to share their admiration. One person commented, “This is the best performance I have seen from a pop star in like [the] past 3 years.”

Another concurred, “One of the best performances of recent years. SORRY FOR EVERYONE BUT THIS IS THE PERFORMANCE, THIS IS VMA, THIS IS POP CULTURE, THIS IS KATY PERRY.”

One fan noted how Perry consistently raises the bar with her performances, leaving audiences entertained and inspired. The user stated, “Katy Perry proving time and time again that she is a Pop Icon. No matter how many new artists arrive, her hits will always be remembered for life.”

Although many fans were captivated by the superstar’s incredible performance, others couldn’t help but focus on her partner’s reactions throughout the show. His expressions quickly went viral.

One X user penned, “Okay…Orlando Bloom’s reaction to Katy Perry shaking her butt cheeks, spreading eagle, scissoring and kissing a girl at #VMA was pretty iconic hahaha!”

Another individual on the platform expressed the same sentiments alongside a video of the performance and a laughing emoji. Someone else reacted to the comments writing, “I saw that too. The cameraman didn’t miss.”

One remarked, “That was his Oscar loser face, pretending it’s all good when he’s really dying inside,” alongside a laughing face emoji. Someone else shared, “It lowkey reminds me of the Justin Timberlake shot after the Britney [and] Madonna kiss. But Orlando is just happy to [see] her perform.”

“That shot of Orlando had me on the floor with both laughter and embarrassment,” admitted one YouTube user. Another praised Perry for her unmatched talent and memorable performance, adding, “Orlando’s awkward presence was quite entertaining as well.”

Someone said, “It’s funny how Orlando Bloom is watching like a grandpa,” while another mentioned that the camera should have panned to him when his partner sang, “‘I hope my boyfriend doesn’t mind it.’” Meanwhile, one person gushed over how the movie actor “was there hyping” for his longtime girlfriend as it was “adorable” to watch.

At the end of her 9-minute performance, Bloom joined Perry on stage as she accepted her Vanguard Award. “Oh my gosh. Thank you. I did all that in my first day of my period too. Can you believe it?” the singer said of her performance as she began her speech.

She continued, “Thank you so much to MTV for believing in my weirdness from day one and for helping artists extend their worlds beyond a song.” The songwriter emphasized that sustaining a long and successful career in the music industry requires many factors to come together.

She expressed gratitude for her team of more than twenty years and her record label, noting that it takes a village of dedicated individuals, plenty of constructive conversations, and countless group chats to help her perform at her best.

Perry expressed heartfelt gratitude to her parents, family, friends, and her devoted fans, affectionately known as “Katy Cats.” She acknowledged their unwavering support throughout her journey, saying she wouldn’t be where she is today without them.

“Thank you to Orlando, for keeping me grounded, celebrated and doing the dishes. And lastly for my Daisy, the only flower I’ll ever need,” the songwriter stated, referring to the couple’s daughter.

The mother of one shared her excitement about seeing rising artists in the music industry who perform with confidence, authenticity, and vulnerability. Reflecting on her own journey, she acknowledged the many naysayers she has encountered over the years.

One of the key reasons for her continued presence in show business, she explained, is learning to tune out the negativity. She emphasized that this is a challenge many artists face, particularly women.

In closing her heartfelt speech, Perry encouraged fellow performers to stay true to themselves and their art while disconnecting from social media to protect their mental health.

She then announced the release of her new album, “143,” set for September 20, 2024, and expressed her deep appreciation for her fans. Turning to Orlando Bloom, Katy Perry embraced him with a kiss as they walked off stage together.

Perry’s unforgettable performance and heartfelt words left a lasting impression on both her fans and the music industry. With her upcoming album release and continued support from loved ones, the pop icon shows no signs of slowing down.