MTV quietly erases Michael Jackson’s name from VMA

Michael Jackson was history at the MTV Video Music Awards Monday.

The network quietly removed the late King of Pop from the name of its Video Vanguard Award without explanation during Monday’s show.

Page Six reported last month that MTV would pull Jackson’s name from the honor due to potential backlash after HBO’s controversial documentary “Leaving Neverland.” The film focuses on sexual abuse allegations against the star.

MTV did include Jackson’s name on a press release sent out to announce rapper Missy Elliott as this year’s Vanguard recipient — but other promos excluded his name. MTV renamed the award for Jackson in 1991.

Elliott did mention him during her acceptance speech, saying, “The Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award means so much to me,” before thanking Janet Jackson for her friendship and inspiration. MTV hasn’t commented. Jackson’s estate is suing HBO over the film.