MTV Reportedly Considering Removing Michael Jackson’s Name from Video Vanguard Award

MTV is reportedly in discussions to remove Michael Jackson's name from its distinguished Video Vanguard Award. Sources say the discussions have gone "ugly" with suggestions to scrap the award completely.

Michael Jackson’s name continues to lose its luster after MTV reportedly ponders stripping his name from their Video Vanguard Award.

MTV RESPONDS TO "LEAVING DOCUMENTARY" FALLOUT

As a result of his desecration following the release of the scathing documentary, “Leaving Neverland” which shed light on his alleged sexual encounters with minor boys, Michael Jackson’s legacy is slowly being tarnished.

With fans, the media and celebrities changing their opinions about him including Oprah Winfrey, it seems MTV is taking precautions by ensuring its Vanguard Award isn’t dragged by the music legend’s dwindling reputation.

“It’s getting ugly,” according to the source which also adds that apart from changing its name there are talks of disposing of the award completely.

DISCUSSIONS TURN UGLY AS MTV CONSIDERS SCRAPPING MJ'S NAME FROM ITS AWARD

Recent reports suggest the music giant is in discussion to rename the award that recognizes the accomplishments of legendary artists.

Originally called the VMA Video Vanguard Award when it was first launched in 1984, it was renamed in honor of Jackson in 1991.

Though it isn’t handed out annually, July is usually the month the recipient is named. However, this year, no name has been identified yet.

Now it appears the name is seriously being questioned in light of the scandal brought about by the HBO documentary. According to a source for Page Six, nothing has been decided regarding the fate of the award’s name.

“It’s getting ugly,” according to the source which also adds that apart from changing its name there are talks of disposing of the award completely.

Jackson’s camp filed a lawsuit against HBO, suing the company for $100 million. It claimed the company breached a 1992 contract banning it from making damaging remarks against the late singer

THIS YEAR'S VANGUARD RECIPIENT REMAINS UNNAMED

Last year, Jennifer Lopez took home the distinguished award which also deemed her the first Latina to secure it. Though it isn’t handed out annually, July is usually the month the recipient is named. However, this year, no name has been identified yet.

JACKSON'S FAMILY CONTINUES TO DEFEND HIM

Despite the seemingly convincing testimonies of Jackson’s accusers, Wade Robson and James Safechuck whose stories were the basis for the documentary, the singer’s estate remains steadfast in denying the allegations.

Robson and Safechuck detailed their encounters with Jackson during their childhood frequenting the King of Pop’s Neverland home.

They alleged that Jackson engaged in a sexual relationship with them and drew them in through his celebrity status and nurturing ways.

Jackson’s camp filed a lawsuit against HBO, suing the company for $100 million. It claimed the company breached a 1992 contract banning it from making damaging remarks against the late singer.

HBO responded by submitting documents in court stating the contract had already expired by the time the documentary was created.