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Things We Saw Today: MTV Reminds Us How Epic the 2003 Awards Were

Every once in awhile, MTV will release some of its vintage performances and today they finally released untagged version of the 2003 VMA opener, which featured Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Madonna and Missy Elliott in the kiss that rocked the internet and probably awakened many young people. Before Katy Perry kissed a girl, Britney kissed X-Tina and it was epic. This one actually includes the part where Christina and Britney kiss, which was edited to show the reaction of Justin Timberlake (Britney’s ‘Cry Me a River’ ex) kissing Madonna.

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Was it kind of queer-baity-y? Absolutely. But, much like t.a.t.u, I didn’t have much say in the queer influences I had in my pop culture. Yes, they were “bad girls” for doing it, but that doesn’t mean I could enjoy it as a baby gay in progress. Besides, it was also just an era of pop stars where they were expected to put on a damn show and that alone is worth revisiting.

(via ONTD, image: Screengrab)

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What problematic pop culture moment do you have nostalgia about?

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Princess Weekes
Princess (she/her-bisexual) is a Brooklyn born Megan Fox truther, who loves Sailor Moon, mythology, and diversity within sci-fi/fantasy. Still lives in Brooklyn with her over 500 Pokémon that she has Eevee trained into a mighty army. Team Zutara forever.

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