The song 's accompanying music video premiered on June 13 , 2008 . Directed by Joseph Khan , it portrays the Pussycat Dolls in a traffic jam on Hollywood Boulevard . It was complimented for its dance breakdown , and was nominated in five categories at the 2008 MTV Video Music Awards , the most of that ceremony , and went on to win Best Dance Video . The Pussycat Dolls performed the song on television shows including '' Jimmy Kimmel Live ! '' and '' So You Think You Can Dance '' , as well several award shows including the 2008 American Music Awards , and throughout their Doll Domination Tour ( 2009 )
2008 MTV Video Music Awards
2008 MTV Video Music Awards
When I Grow Up (The Pussycat Dolls song)