MTV launched on Aug. 1, 1981.
1983
Michael Jackson debuts his now-iconic “Thriller” music video.
1993
The musicians of Nirvana give one of their last televised performances with Kurt Corbain onMTV Unplugged.
Everett Collection
Bill Clinton answers the boxers or briefs question during the Rock the Vote forum.
2000
Jackasspremieres, opening the door to prank and stunt comedy for years to come.
2002
The Osbournespremieres, inspiring many celebrity reality series to follow.
Everett Collection
Madonna and Britney Spears (and Christina Aguilera!)
kiss during a performance at the VMAs.
In the height ofMTV Cribs, Mariah Carey opens her doors for a bizarre tour of her abode.
Ebet Roberts/Redferns
2005
Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdam recreate their award-winning smooch fromThe Notebookat the MTV Movie Awards.
After four years,The Hillsairs its final episode, dropping the curtain on the reality series.
2013
Robin Thicke twerks with Miley Cyrus during a performance at the VMAs.
Frank Micelotta/ImageDirect
MTV
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Frank Micelotta/ImageDirect
Paramount/Getty Images
MTV
MTV/Courtesy Everett Collection
Chris Polk/FilmMagic
MTV
J. Shearer/WireImage
MTV
MTV
Kanye West and Taylor Swift at the 2009 MTV VMAs.Christopher Polk/Getty Images
Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images
MTV
Kristian Dowling/PictureGroup
MTV
Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic
