As 2013 wraps up to a close, Miley Cyrus has definitely left her legacy as one of the most outrageous, obscene and memorable pop stars of the year. From her drastic transformation to her salacious VMA performance, society just can’t get enough of Miley’s wild antics as she keeps us anxious about what she’ll do next. As a result, critics are calling 2013 “The Year of Miley Cyrus” and shed light on her most shocking moments.
Arguably Miley’s biggest moment was her performance with Robin Thicke at the 2013 VMA’s. Officially bringing twerking into the mainstream, Miley rocked the stage in a teddy bear onsie that had everyone talking for days. It gave rise to new meanings for Halloween costumes and infographics. After her heartbreaking split from Liam Hemsworth that led to her scandalous “Wrecking Ball” music video, it seemed that nothing was out of Miley’s comfort zone. Despite her highs and low’s (and many tragic outfit choices), Cyrus has been called every name in the book. But for one thing, she is coming into her own skin and breaking away from the innocent fresh-faced Hannah Montana that made her famous years prior. She made that very clear as she posed for the cover of Rolling Stones wearing nothing but black eyeliner and gold jewelry. Even her album cover for “Bangerz” leaves little to the imagination.
However, despite her haters, the young pop sensation continues to surprise regardless of what people think of her. The singer snagged number one for Maxim’s Hot 100, ruling out contenders such as Beyonce, Mila Kunis and Rhianna. She was also named MTV’s Artist of the Year and tops the most searched celebrity on Google and Yahoo. Her interview with Today Show’s Matt Lauer and performance of her hit songs “We Can’t Stop” and “Wrecking Ball” only added more fuel to the fire as fans far and wide tuned in for the occasion. Similar to her VMA rendition, her debut at Jingle Ball in Los Angeles turned heads as she became very festive with good ole’ Santa Claus on stage, showing off her unique dance moves, tongue and all. What really sparked controversy was Cyrus’s MTV EMA performance in Amsterdam. Taking advantage of the legal marijuana tax laws, Miley didn’t flinch as she lit up a joint on stage in front of thousands.
Miley got the last laugh as she made an appearance on Saturday Night Live back in October sporting her trademark nude onsie with giant teddy bears surrounding her. After a mob of letters came in from outraged parents and even one from the inventor of the giant foam finger (who she later promised tickets to her show) Miley insists on being true to herself and not losing sight of what matters to her in the face of adversity. Some call her a role model, some call her insane, but one thing Cyrus doesn’t lack is newsworthy performances and interesting wardrobe choices.