Madonna, Bieber kick off MTV VMAs; Olivia Rodrigo 1st winner

(AP) – Madonna and Justin Bieber have kicked off the 2021 MTV Video Music Awards. Madonna paid homage to the network’s 40th anniversary before tossing it to Bieber, who rappelled from the ceiling of the Barclays Center and performed his song “Stay” with The Kid LAROI. Olivia Rodrigo won the night’s first honor, song of the year, and thanked fans for what she called “the most magical year” of her life. Bieber leads the show with seven nominations, while Megan Thee Stallion has six nods. Performances will include Lil Nas X, Camila Cabello, Chloe, Kacey Musgraves, Shawn Mendes, Olivia Rodrigo and Doja Cat – who will also serve as the show’s host.