The Independent's journalism is supported by our readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn commission.

Miley Cyrus debuts two new 'symbolic' tattoos at MTV VMAs

Star performs moving rendition of new single 'Slide Away' at awards ceremony

Sabrina Barr
Tuesday 27 August 2019 09:58 BST
Comments

Miley Cyrus debuted two new tattoos at the MTV VMAs, both of which have fans speculating that they have symbolic meanings.

Hours before the awards ceremony on Monday evening, it was announced that Cyrus would be making a surprise appearance to perform her new single "Slide Away".

The singer wore a mini black dress for her performance, providing the audience with a glimpse of the new ink on her left bicep and on the side of her left hand.

The tattoo on the 26-year-old's left bicep features lyrics from Pixies song "The Thing", written in cursive.

"My head was feeling scared, but my heart was feeling free," reads the tattoo, which features words penned by Pixies frontman Charles Thompson IV, who goes by the stage name Black Francis.

Earlier this month, it was announced that Cyrus had split from actor Liam Hemsworth following eight months of marriage. The pair were romantically involved for around a decade.

While some have speculated that the new tattoo may have been inspired by Cyrus' break-up from Hemsworth, the star has not confirmed any details about the meaning behind her new inkings.

The second new tattoo that Cyrus debuted at the MTV VMAs is the year "1961", which can be seen on the side of her left hand.

Cyrus' father, singer Billy Ray Cyrus, was born in 1961 and celebrated his 58th birthday on Sunday, on the eve of the awards ceremony.

Rapper Lil Nas X's hit song "Old Town Road (Remix)", featuring Billy Ray Cyrus, won Song of the Year at the MTV VMAs.

According to Allure, Cyrus' new tattoos were inked by Los Angeles-based tattoo artist Winter Stone.

Following the announcement of Cyrus and Hemsworth's separation, Cyrus spoke out to deny claims that she cheated on the Hunger Games star.

Last week, the singer released a statement on Twitter and Instagram in which she stated: "I can admit to a lot of things but I refuse to admit that my marriage ended because of cheating."

Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events

To take a look at all the best-dressed stars at this year's MTV VMAs, click here.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in