At the 2023 VMAs, just before Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion took the stage to perform “Bongos,” an interesting encounter unfolded backstage involving Megan Thee Stallion and Justin Timberlake. The incident sparked some discussion among fans on Twitter.
Meg, who was in the midst of last-minute touch-ups from her hairstylist, appeared to exchange words with Justin Timberlake as NSYNC returned backstage after presenting an award to Taylor Swift. Observers had varying interpretations of the situation. Meg seemed agitated by something Timberlake may have said as he passed by. While he was smiling, she pointed at him and gave a forceful response. However, some fans suggested that her side of the conversation was merely her repeating “that doesn’t count.” This repetition was seen by some as a possible reaction to the bait-and-switch of NSYNC’s rumored “reunion.” Many, including Taylor Swift, had expected the group to perform a song.
Sources tell @etnow that Justin told Megan, "it's so nice to meet you." Megan said "no no this don't count, this don't count, we gotta meet proper." It was a very cute moment. #VMAs https://t.co/hjR9Zc4GQN
— Anthony Dominic (@alloveranthony) September 13, 2023
It’s important to note that without audio, all of this remains speculative. Megan Thee Stallion, like many others, is part of the demographic that grew up listening to NSYNC’s music, so her potential disappointment with the lack of a performance is understandable.
However, it’s worth mentioning that NSYNC’s “reunion” during the VMAs could be a setup for their eventual song in the upcoming Trolls movie, “Band Together,” which plays on the group’s mid-2000s breakup. If speculation continues to swirl, they’ll likely have an opportunity to address the rumors during the movie’s press tour.
For now, the exact nature of the interaction between Megan Thee Stallion and Justin Timberlake remains a topic of discussion and interpretation among fans.
Wtf did he say to her??? #VMAs pic.twitter.com/xYsQNnPrza
— jaⓂ️es (@BartierJames) September 13, 2023
Either Justin said something wildly out of pocket to her, or she’s saying ‘This does not count,’ maybe referring to them just presenting together as a “reunion” instead of performing.
— Beyoncé’s Summer Renaissance Mic Chain 🏳️🌈🚺 (@LenaVandross) September 13, 2023
Idk https://t.co/6qIl6TYjnV