Taylor Swift becomes the most awarded artist in VMA history with 31 trophies

CBS and MTV announced this new accolade on Monday, September 21. It recognizes musicians whose work behind the camera has significantly influenced music video production and developed a distinctive directorial voice.

Reuters notes that the singer has already won the VMA for Best Direction four times. Among the works cited are the videos for “The Fate of Ophelia,” “Opalite,” and “Anti-Hero.”

This inaugural award will increase her total from 30 to 31 accolades. The Associated Press reports that she will surpass Beyoncé and become the most awarded artist in VMA history.

Taylor Swift made her directorial debut with the music video for “The Man” in 2020. She has since directed several of her projects, including “All Too Well: The Short Film,” which bolstered her recognition as a visual creator.

The ceremony will be hosted by Snoop Dogg at the Peacock Theater. Madonna will open the evening, twenty-three years after her last performance on the VMA stage.

The live broadcast is set to air on CBS and MTV in the United States, with international availability on Paramount+ and MTV the following day. Nirvana will also receive the Video Vanguard Award during this edition.