Sabrina Carpenter's performance at the 2024 MTV VMAs sparked significant attention and controversy due to her on-stage kiss with an alien during her medley of hits including 'Taste' and 'Espresso.' The performance drew mixed reactions, with some praising her boldness and others criticizing it as inappropriate for a family audience. Carpenter also paid homage to Madonna by wearing her iconic 1991 Oscars Bob Mackie gown, which generated additional buzz. Despite the polarizing performance, she won her first VMA for Song of the Year for 'Espresso,' expressing heartfelt gratitude to her fans and collaborators in her acceptance speech. The event also featured nostalgic and inventive performances from other artists, celebrating the VMAs' 40-year history.