Katy Perry; Russell Brand Photo

From: Photo Flash: Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and More at the VMAs!

The ladies ruled the kingdom at the '2011 MTV Video Music Awards,' broadcast live this evening from Nokia Theater L.A. Live, as Katy Perry and Adele each took home three VMA Moonmen and Lady Gaga two. Katy Perry won the biggest prize of the night, 'Video of the Year,' with her pop anthem, 'Fireworks,' as well as honors for 'Best Collaboration' and 'Best Special Effects' for 'E.T.' featuring Kanye West. Adding to her reign atop the album charts, Adele won VMAs for 'Best Art Direction,' 'Best Cinematography,' and 'Best Editing.' Genre and gender-defying Lady Gaga kicked off the night as her alter ego Joe Calderone with a show-stopping performance of 'You and I,' and later walked away with two VMAs for 'Best Female' and this year's new category, 'Best Video with a Message.'