old singer hasn't bothered the UK charts in nearly 20 years, and yet this year's Rick-rolling phenomenon appears to be enough to clinch him a place alongside fellow nominees Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and U2. Astley enjoyed a belated return to the limelight when a viral campaign deliberately misdirecting people to one of his music videos made national headlines. The show's producer Richard Godfrey told the BBC: "Rick's fans have obviously decided that he deserves recognition as a pop icon and no doubt they are determined to make sure he wins on the night."
Astley has never been nominated for an MTV award before and fans will vote online to choose this year's Best Act Ever. But whether tricking millions of internet users into viewing his 1987 hit Never Gonna Give You Up will equate to actual votes remains to be seen.
The winner will be revealed when the show airs on November 6.
