Taylor Swift makes history at the VMAs with over 30 awards

It was already clear before the VMAs that Swift would become the most awarded artist in the history of the gala. A week earlier, it was announced that the 36-year-old would be the first recipient of the new Artist director honors award, which will pay tribute to artists who have broken new ground behind the camera as well.

With the award, Swift is the only one to receive more than 30 awards at the VMAs. She previously shared the top spot with Beyoncé.

Swift also accepted the Video of the Year award for "The Fate of Ophelia," an award she dedicated to the recently deceased Dolly Parton.

- We were all lucky to share this planet with Dolly for a time, said Swift, who later also won the award for Best Director for "Opalite".

The most awards at the gala went to Madonna. The veteran took home five statuettes.

- I came to life on the dance floor. We are all equal on the dance floor, she said when she received the award for Best Dance Song.

Zara Larsson was nominated in five categories for "Stateside" which she did with Pink Panthress. There was a prize for Best scenography.

The text is updated.