Miley Cyrus recently reflected on the viral 2013 VMAs performance that defined her career’s bold new chapter, crediting her late-night appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live as the crucial rehearsal that made it possible. During her May 22 interview, the singer opened up about how that early TV moment shaped her infamous teddy bear act and shared exciting details about her upcoming album and film, Something Beautiful, set to release later this month.
The late-night trial that shaped a cultural moment
Miley Cyrus is no stranger to pushing boundaries, but few moments in her career have resonated as loudly as her 2013 MTV Video Music Awards performance. On May 22, she sat down with Jimmy Kimmel to share an insider story that few knew — that the notorious VMAs twerking moment had its origins on his show. “I am so happy to see you in my new era,” Miley told Kimmel with a smile. “This new era is very sophisticated and I have to tell you, your show allowed me to create the VMAs in 2013.”
The pop icon revealed that before shocking millions on the VMAs stage alongside Robin Thicke, she tested the waters with a live performance on Kimmel’s show just months prior. “I came here first and I kind of used the show as a trial run, you know, where I dance as a teddy bear like half naked, and everyone thought I was crazy,” she said. “But to see if it was going to work, I did it here first.”
The teddy bear costume, which later sparked both criticism and acclaim, was inspired by a sculpture from artist Todd James. Miley described how the bear somehow felt personal and beautiful to her, even if it enraged some viewers at the time.
From controversy to career-defining growth
That infamous 2013 VMAs performance launched Miley into a new level of stardom and controversy. In a 2018 interview, she reflected on how it reshaped her path. “Not only was culture changed, but my life and career were changed forever,” she told Wonderland magazine. “It inspired me to use my platform for something much bigger. If the world is going to focus on me and what I am doing, then what I am doing should be impactful and it should be great.”
Miley’s willingness to embrace controversy and self-expression has become a defining feature of her artistry. In a 2023 British Vogue video, she revisited the teddy bear outfit, admitting, “This was extremely controversial and made a lot of people angry. I repeat, this teddy bear costume made a lot of people angry.” But rather than shy away, she has always viewed her provocative choices as part of her storytelling and growth.
A new project fueled by music and storytelling
Alongside reminiscing about her past, Miley Cyrus also shared exciting news about her upcoming film, Something Beautiful, which will accompany her album of the same name, dropping May 30. Unlike a traditional narrative film, Miley explained that the project is a visual extension of the album, where “the music is the story.”
“Every song is storytelling,” she said. “Even though this has become very kind of psychedelic and over the top — like everything that I do — at the end of it, really the heart of it is just the music. Really, the storytelling.”
Miley emphasized that the film’s strength lies in its authenticity. “There was no need for characterization because I’m the character. And I never want to become something or someone that I’m not.” Fans can expect an immersive experience that highlights Miley’s artistic vision and personal journey through her new music.
Looking ahead with confidence and creativity
From the rebellious energy of the 2013 VMAs to her current sophisticated artistry, Miley Cyrus continues to evolve as a fearless creator. Her recent conversation with Jimmy Kimmel not only sheds light on the origins of one of pop culture’s most iconic moments but also sets the stage for what’s next in her career. As Something Beautiful prepares to debut, fans can look forward to a project that blends bold visuals with heartfelt music and storytelling — a true reflection of Miley’s enduring spirit and artistic growth.
