Kim Petras becomes first out trans artist to perform at MTV EMAs: ‘A dream come true’
"I don't get censored - and MTV fought for that," said the star, whose performance took place in LGBTQ-unfriendly Hungary
Words: Jamie Tabberer; picture: Provided
Kim Petras made history at the MTV European Music Awards (EMAs) last night, becoming the first out transgender artist ever to perform at the ceremony.
The star performed two new tracks from her upcoming debut album: ‘Coconuts’ and ‘Hit It From The Back’.
Kim’s appearance at last night’s awards ceremony in Budapest, Hungary follows the country recently passing a slew of anti-LGBTQ legislation.
Kim Petras performs two brand-new songs off of her forthcoming debut studio album, “Coconuts” and “Hit It From The Back,” at the #EMAs. 🥥💚 pic.twitter.com/Hj4wGYF7Hd
— KIM PETRAS UPDATES (@kimpetrasupdate) November 14, 2021
Recognition of transgender citizens and gender transition are outlawed, as is same-sex parent adoption. Content depicting homosexuality or gender change to under-18s is also prohibited.
“A full-circle moment”
Speaking to Metro on the red carpet, Kim said: “I’m super excited. I watched the EMAs since I was a kid. I grew up in Germany and it was a big deal for me when they happened.”
“And being the first transgender performer on there is very surreal to me and very amazing because I remember never seeing a transgender pop star at the EMAs when I was a kid and so it’s a dream come true, it’s a full-circle moment.”
The 29-year-old added: “I just hope that it can bring joy to people watching it and that it can make people feel like they’re not alone because, with the censorship of LGBTQ media in Hungary, I think it’s so powerful that I get to perform and that I get to show who I am and that I don’t get censored, and MTV fought for that and I’m proud, I’m really excited.”
The Attitude December issue is out now.
Subscribe in print and get your first three issues for just £1 each, or digitally for just over £1.50 per issue.
