Beyonce’s baby bump steals show at awards

BEYONCE and Jay-Z’s offspring doesn’t even have a name yet, but it was the indisputable breakout star of the MTV Video Music Awards, upstaging everyone, even Katy Perry’s win for video of the year.

Perry, who had the most nominations with 10, came away with three moonman trophies, including video of the year for the inspirational clip Firework.

“I feel like I’m doing something right when I sing that song,” said Perry.

But the night’s big news came from Beyonce, who stole the show before it even began when she announced on the black carpet that after more than three years of marriage, the couple had produced the ultimate all-star collaboration.

Dressed in a loose-fitting, off-the-shoulder red gown, she clutched the baby bump that so many celeb-watchers had been predicting since the two wed.

Later, Beyonce performed “Love on Top”, and if Twitter hadn’t already spread the news, her outfit gave clues to her impending motherhood; instead of her typical sexy outfits, she dressed in conservative spangled tux — but still danced around in her signature stilettos.

Beyonce didn’t utter a word about the pregnancy, but ended the number by taking off her jacket and rubbing her swollen belly. In the audience, an elated Jay-Z hooted and clapped for his wife as Kanye West hugged him.

Lady Gaga’s much-hyped opening number, during which she performed as a greasy, leather-jacketed male alter-ego during a performance of You and I, became less interesting.

So did the evening’s meticulously planned wild moments, from Nicki Minaj’s origami-like outfit to a dance-off between the members of Odd Future and Jack Black, Will Ferrell and Seth Rogen.

There was one apparently unscripted moment during Jay-Z’s performance with Kanye West of Otis, off their chart-topping joint album Watch the Throne.

Near the end of the song, someone tried to walk on the stage, but was quickly apprehended by a crew member as a bemused Jay-Z looked on. It was the second time Jay-Z had someone walk on unannounced during an MTV performance. Two years ago, it was Lil Mama.

Britney Spears captured the night’s first award, for best pop video, and later was honoured with an MTV Video Vanguard award for her visual legacy.

Lady Gaga, sticking to her gender-switch shtick, leered at Spears as she paid tribute to her.

“She’s a pop music legend, and the industry would not be the same without her,” Gaga said. “I used to hang pictures of her on my wall and touch myself when I was in bed.”

Later, Gaga fished for a kiss, but as Spears leaned in, she quickly pulled back, reminding viewers, “I’ve done that before.”

Meanwhile, seven-time nominee Adele delivered a powerfully understated performance of Someone Like You, from her top-selling album 21. The show took place at the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles.