What is the origin of MTV’s ‘Moon Person’ trophy? History explained

MTV's ‘Moon Person' trophy is the most coveted award of the MTV Video Music Awards, also known as the VMAs, which are one of the most recognized music award shows in the world. Since its start, the show has celebrated music videos, artists, and popular culture.

This trophy was once called the "Moonman." It shows an astronaut standing on the moon while placing a flag with the MTV logo. Over time, the trophy became a symbol of MTV and its history.

MTV's ‘Moon Person' trophy has gone through a few changes. Its name, design, and meaning have been updated to match changing times. The story of how it started and how it has changed reflects both MTV’s image and culture.

The beginning of the Moonman

MTV began in August 1981. The very first thing shown on the channel was a clip of the Apollo 11 moon landing. In that video, the MTV flag was edited into the image. This moment connected the idea of space exploration with MTV’s launch into the world of music television.

When the MTV Video Music Awards started in 1984, the trophy was created to honor this origin. The design was a silver astronaut holding the MTV flag. It became known as the “Moonman.”

For many years, the Moonman stayed the same. It became an icon of pop culture and one of the most recognizable trophies in entertainment. Artists who won felt a direct link to MTV’s beginnings.

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The change to MTV's 'Moon Person'

In 2017, MTV announced a new name for the statue. The 'Moonman' would now be called MTV's ‘Moon Person.' Chris McCarthy, president of MTV at the time, said the new name was more inclusive. He explained that the figure could represent anyone, not just a man.

This change happened when MTV was also removing gender divisions in its acting categories. The move showed a shift toward recognizing diversity and equality in the entertainment industry.

In 2021, MTV celebrated its 40th anniversary by giving MTV's ‘Moon Person' a new design. Artist Kehinde Wiley redesigned it with vines and flowers while keeping the astronaut figure. It was a way of marking the channel’s long history while bringing new ideas into the symbol.

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The MTV Moon Person trophy is more than an award. It is a part of MTV’s story from the time the channel first went on air in 1981. From the original Moonman to today’s Moon Person, the statue shows how MTV connects its past with present culture. Its history explains why it continues to stand as one of the most famous symbols in music awards.

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