The MTV Awards were established in 2006 by MTV Italy, awarded to the most popular artists and music videos in Italy. Originally an annual event for the most requested videos and artists on Total Request Live, from 2013 the MTV Awards reflect what MTV Italian viewers consider the best in music, cinema and fashion.

Total Request Live is the Italian version of the American television program of the same name that originated in 1999. Originally broadcast weekdays at 2.00 p.m., its time slot was changed as it ran into its second season. It was broadcast at 3.00 p.m. starting in 2002.