Awards shows have not always been about handing out trophies to the best ones, but also these are the platforms where you can expect the most unexpected and unforgettable moment to happen. It can either be a shocking unfolding or a sudden act of emotion. Below is a curated list of ten iconic moments from award show history that have left a lasting impact on audiences around the globe.
10. Aretha Franklin Sings Opera at the Grammys (1998)
At the Grammys in 1998, Aretha Franklin gave an impromptu performance and sang opera after Luciano Pavarotti canceled his performance at the last minute. Her giving an exceptional performance at such short notice not only shows her versatility but also her divine talent. She was well-praised and left a lasting impression on Grammy audiences.
9. Michael Jackson Kisses Lisa Marie Presley (1994 VMAs)
At the VMA in 1994, Michael Jackson kissed his new wife, Lisa Marie Presley on the stage which shocked the audience and viewers completely and gained a wide amount of media attention. It remained an iconic moment in the history of award shows and pop culture history even after all these years.
8. Jodie Foster Came Out (2013 Golden Globes)
During the 2013 Golden Globes, Jodie Foster in the middle of her deeply personal speech, mentioned her sexuality marking a significant milestone for LGBTQ+ visibility in Hollywood. Her opinions challenged criteria and sparked conversations about privacy and public identity.
7. Adrien Brody’s Kiss with Halle Berry (2002 Oscars)
Adrien Brody won the “Best Actor” award 2002 Oscars and left the audience speechless by kissing presenter Halle Berry passionately on stage after winning. This shocking public display of affection left an imprint on viewers worldwide gave awards a romantic twist and remains one of its most talked-about moments.
6. Diana Ross and Lil’ Kim’s Moment (1999 VMAs)
During VMA 1999, Diana Ross playfully interacted with rapper Lil’ Kim on stage, and in addition to that an unforgettable twitch of Lil’ Kim’s revealing outfit. This sudden and lighthearted moment between two musical icons added a comedic moment to the evening.
5. Beyoncé Reveals Her Baby Bump (2011 VMAs)
Beyoncé surprised everyone at the 2011 VMA by confirming her pregnancy and revealing her baby bump, this moment touched everyone’s heart and became a trending news overnight.
4. Jack Palance’s One-Armed Push-Ups (1991 Oscars)
At the age of 73, Jack Palance spontaneously performed three one-armed push-ups on stage after winning Best Supporting Actor for “City Slickers”. This act showcased his fitness and sense of humor and became an iconic moment at the Oscars.
3. Kanye West Interrupts Taylor Swift (2009 VMAs)
At the VMA 2009, Taylor Swift’s acceptance speech was famously disrupted by Kanye West who stated that Beyoncé deserved that award more than her. This was totally unscripted and Kanye’s outspokenness became an enduring meme and symbol of unexpected disturbances.
2. Madonna, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera Kiss (2003 VMAs)
At the 2003 MTV VMA, Madonna passionately kissed Britney Spears, and at the same time kissed Christina Aguilera during a performance. This disturbing display of pop culture royalty caused provocation among viewers and became an iconic moment for the award shows to remember.
1. Will Smith Slaps Chris Rock (2022 Oscars)
At the 2022 Oscars, Will Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage after a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith which left imprints on the audience as well as on Chris Rock’s face. This shocking event induced immediate controversy and reached the headlines.
