In a scene straight out of a Hollywood drama, Australian music sensation The Kid LAROI was forced into a strategic retreat at one of the MTV Video Music Awards' most exclusive afterparties on Tuesday night. The cause? The unexpected arrival of his ex-girlfriend, Canadian pop star and dancer Tate McRae.
Eyewitnesses at the glamorous event report that the 20-year-old 'Stay' hitmaker, whose real name is Charlton Howard, was visibly startled upon seeing McRae enter the venue. Demonstrating a clear desire to avoid a potentially awkward confrontation, LAROI was seen making a hasty exit through a side door mere moments after she arrived.
A Night of High Glamour and Higher Tension
The evening had begun on a high note for the young artist. LAROI, who had earlier delivered a show-stopping performance at the main awards ceremony at Newark's Prudential Center, was in high spirits as he celebrated at the official afterparty held at the luxurious Haven Lounge.
He was spotted enjoying the company of friends and fellow artists, seemingly without a care in the world—until the dynamic shifted entirely with McRae's appearance. The two had been romantically linked for several months before their split earlier this year, and sources suggest their parting was less than amicable.
Parallel Parties and Near Misses
Adding to the night's tension, the former couple had been navigating the same high-profile event circuit throughout the evening. Both were in attendance at the main VMAs ceremony, though they managed to maintain a safe distance. Their paths finally converged at the afterparty, prompting LAROI's swift departure.
McRae, 20, appeared unfazed and was later seen enjoying the festivities with her own group of friends. The 'You Broke Me First' singer looked elegant in a chic black ensemble, a stark contrast to the dramatic narrative unfolding around her.
A History of Young Hollywood Romance
The relationship between the two young stars had been a topic of fascination for fans since they were first spotted together in late 2022. Their romance played out largely across social media, with both posting cryptic messages and photos that sent fan forums into a frenzy.
While neither has spoken publicly about the reasons for their split, the clear avoidance tactic employed at the VMAs suggests that any hopes of a friendly reconciliation remain firmly off the table. This incident serves as another compelling chapter in the world of young celebrity relationships, where personal dramas unfold on the most public of stages.
