Miley’s Reflective Moment: Looking Back at the 2013 VMAs

In Pakistan on May 25, Miley Cyrus spoke openly about her provocative twerk performance during the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards (VMA). During an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the singer talked frankly about how significant a part Kimmel’s program played in shaping her act. “Let me express my joy at seeing you now as I enter this new phase,” she stated. “This fresh chapter is quite refined, and let me say that your show gave me the chance to craft the VMAs back in 2013.” Reflecting on performing outdoors at Kimmel’s show in June 2013, Cyrus went on: “First off, I appeared here, using his show almost as a rehearsal.”
“I danced somewhat scantily dressed, acting like a teddy bear, which made people think I was insane. Yet, testing whether it would fly publicly led me to try it out with him initially,” she elaborated.
“Beyond altering cultural norms, this experience transformed both my personal journey and professional trajectory irreversibly,” she noted before wrapping up. She concluded by saying, “It motivated me to leverage my influence for greater purposes. Given that global attention will inevitably center around me and whatever actions I take, they must carry weight and make a difference.”
For those unfamiliar, Miley Cyrus encountered backlash following her risqué dancing routine at the 2013 VMA due to its overtly sexual nature and twerking elements.