As per reports in an International portal, MTV is coming up with the idea of erasing Michael Jackson's name from the Video Vanguard Award for this year's Video Music Awards. A source close to MTV informed the daily that there are talks going on about who would present the award and who would accept it. The reason for the removal is considered is Michael's documentary Leaving Neverland.
"There’s a lot of heated discussion at the network about how to handle the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award this year, and it’s getting ugly. There’s talk about if they should change the name, or get rid of it altogether. There’s also talk about who would present it and who would accept it. It’s a mess," a source close to MTV told the portal.
Coming to Leaving Neverland, Wade Robson and James Safechuck, claimed that the late pop star had a sexual relationship with them while they were children. This documentary brought backlash to both Michael and HBO. Some people questioned Wade's and James' allegations while others decided to boycott MJ's music. This led Jackson's estate to deny the accusations and filed a $100 million lawsuit against HBO and another lawsuit against the accusers. This wave of confusion surrounding Jackson's legacy has resulted in MTV questioning if they should keep or remove his name from the award.
MTV, actively recognise the accomplishment of legendary artists, directors, and entertainers with their VMA Video Vanguard Award since 1984. Due to Michael's groundbreaking visuals, MTV decided to rename the award to the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award in 1991.
(Source: Complex)
