Sabrina Carpenter stole the show at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) with a stellar performance, leaving fans in awe. Held on September 11 in the US, the VMAs is one of the music industry’s largest annual events, gathering top stars like Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, BLACKPINK’s Lisa, and Chappell Roan. However, one of the most talked-about aspects of the night was the reunion of the “love triangle” trio: Sabrina Carpenter, Shawn Mendes, and Camila Cabello.
Sabrina’s “Short n Sweet” Triumph
After releasing her 12th studio album, Short n Sweet, Sabrina Carpenter quickly became a strong contender for several VMAs awards. Her album explores themes of brief but passionate relationships, with fans especially drawn to tracks that subtly hint at her complex relationships with Shawn Mendes and Camila Cabello. Sabrina’s track Taste has been dubbed the “revenge anthem” by fans, as it seemingly narrates her side of the love triangle saga, portraying Mendes as a man torn between past and present, while hinting at Cabello as a “scheming” figure in the relationship.
Given the personal undertones of Short n Sweet, Sabrina’s performance at the VMAs felt like a real-life continuation of the story. This event marked the first time she, Mendes, and Cabello attended the same award show since the album’s release, intensifying fan curiosity.
A Dramatic VMAs Performance
At the VMAs, Sabrina delivered a powerful performance of three hits: Please Please Please, Taste, and Espresso. Her Taste performance stood out as she brought to life a key scene from the song’s music video, recreating a moment where she witnesses her “boyfriend” reconnecting with his ex. Adding a theatrical twist, Sabrina ended her performance with a kiss—not with her best friend Jenna Ortega, as in the video, but with an alien figure, symbolizing a sense of otherworldly empowerment. With a moon-inspired stage and dancers embodying the iconic VMAs moonman, Sabrina captivated the crowd, proving her artistic vision and presence.
Performing right in front of Mendes and Cabello, Sabrina shone, mesmerizing fans with her style, confidence, and talent. Dressed to impress and exuding charisma, the young star left a lasting impression.
Song of the Year Victory
Beyond her performance, Sabrina also scored a major win, taking home the award for Song of the Year for her summer hit Espresso. The win sent fans into a frenzy on social media, celebrating this well-deserved achievement for the Gen Z sensation. Sabrina’s dedication and hard work in 2024 earned her numerous accolades, and Espresso’s win only solidified her status as one of pop’s most promising stars.
As she accepted her award, Sabrina’s emotional response highlighted her gratitude for the “sweet fruits” of her labor. In the presence of Mendes and Cabello, Sabrina’s success at the VMAs felt like a storybook ending to a challenging chapter, showcasing her resilience and artistry.
Sabrina’s Star Continues to Rise
With a successful year behind her and countless records set, Sabrina Carpenter has firmly established herself in the music industry. Her journey from heartbreak to triumph has inspired fans worldwide, and her VMAs performance and win have only amplified her impact.