MTV VMA Reaction Sparks Internet Frenzy
On September 12, 2023, during the MTV Video Music Awards at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, Selena Gomez became the subject of widespread internet chatter.
* Gomez received the Best Afrobeats award alongside Rema for their hit “Calm Down”.
* Her expressive reactions to Chris Brown’s nomination and Olivia Rodrigo’s performance turned heads and ignited online chatter.
Reactions That Went Viral
When Chris Brown, who has faced accusations of violence against women in the past, was announced as a nominee, cameras captured Gomez’s apparent surprise, as she stopped clapping and seemed to scrunch her face.
Furthermore, during Olivia Rodrigo’s mash-up performance from her latest album “Guts”, an intentional set collapse mimicking her music video happened. Gomez’s visibly puzzled expression led to divided interpretations on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. While some believed she was trying to block out Rodrigo’s singing, others felt she was concerned about a potential mishap on stage.
A History of Viral Moments
Beyond the MTV VMAs, Selena Gomez has found herself becoming the center of internet memes on multiple occasions:
* In August, a contemplative photo of her wrapped in a blanket went viral. This image, taken by friend Dominic J West, drew humorous comparisons from fans to scenes from famous movies. However, Gomez embraced the humor, even sharing some of the most amusing memes on her Instagram.
* Earlier in September, her astonished reaction to a save by goalkeeper John McCarthy during a soccer game between Inter Miami CF and Los Angeles FC also grabbed attention. She subsequently shared her reaction on her Instagram Story, humorously captioning it as “Mood”.
Enough is Enough
Feeling the weight of repeated unwanted attention, the “Only Murders in the Building” star took to her Instagram story to voice her feelings. “I will never be a meme again,” Gomez declared, emphasizing her preference for authenticity over internet fame. She went on to express that she’d rather not move than be criticized for simply being herself.
Response from the Public
The sentiment behind Gomez’s declaration resonates with many who believe that the public, at times, can be excessively critical, often taking things out of context. One X user aptly stated, “This is completely unfair and out of context: Olivia pretended to have her set break down and semi-explode as she was fake rushed off stage, and Selena was reacting to that.”
What’s Next for Gomez?
While Selena Gomez’s declaration might keep the meme creators at bay for a while, her influential status in the entertainment world ensures her actions will always be under scrutiny. However, by speaking out, she has undoubtedly given a voice to many who feel pressured by the ever-watchful eye of social media. Her message is clear: it’s essential to remain true to oneself, regardless of public perception.
Featured Image: Free Stock photos by Vecteezy
