The annual MTV VMAs will return once again this Sunday and just like last time, we're curious to see what kinds of controversies will arise this year's award show.
But it wasn't always like this. There once was a time where the network didn't need an award show to stir up talk thanks to music videos capable of shocking viewers.
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So in honour of MTV's 33rd birthday — they launched in August 1981— here are the 33 most controversial videos MTV ever aired. Brought to you, with irony noted, via these YouTube embeds.