[2] In similar fashion to its American counterpart held earlier in August, the performances were filmed at various locations across Europe and the world due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

[6] French DJ David Guetta held the premiere performance of his single "Let's Love" live from a pool at the Széchenyi Bath complex in Budapest, Hungary; British singer Raye featured in Sia's place.

[6][10] English singer Yungblud wore a women's tennis outfit for his performance and assumed the role of "Cupid", flying around the venue of London's Roundhouse and pretending to "shoot arrows at unsuspecting lovers".

After reuniting with his band on the ground, in a "giant red spikey inflatable", he ripped off his white skirt to reveal Union Jack shorts.

[12][13] Best Regional Act winners were announced by Johnny Orlando via a live stream posted on the official MTV EMA Facebook page.