On September 7, 2025, the music world’s biggest night, the MTV Video Music Awards, illuminated New York’s UBS Arena in Elmont, delivering iconic performances, breakthrough awards, and red carpet magic. Hosted by LL Cool J, the ceremony marked its first simultaneous broadcast on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+—a testament to its growing cultural reach.
Major Winners and Highlights
- Lady Gaga emerged as the most-awarded artist of the evening, claiming four Moon Person trophies out of 12 nominations. She won Artist of the Year and shared Best Collaboration with Bruno Mars for their track “Die With a Smile”
- Ariana Grande swept across to win Video of the Year, Best Pop Video, and Best Long Form Video for her project “Brighter Days Ahead” tied to the Eternal Sunshine Deluxe release
- Sabrina Carpenter also made a strong showing with two awards: Album of the Year (Short n’ Sweet) and Best Pop Artist.
- Rosé (BLACKPINK) made history, winning Song of the Year for “Apt.” alongside Bruno Mars—a landmark achievement as the first K-pop soloist to take this honor ..
- Legacy artists received lifetime achievement honors: Mariah Carey earned the Video Vanguard Award, and Ricky Martin was recognized with the inaugural Latin Icon Award .
Standout Performances
- Lady Gaga delivered a visually stunning pre-recorded medley from Madison Square Garden, including “Abracadabra” and “The Dead Dance.” Her Victorian-themed, doll-like choreography captivated audiences, praised by publications like Billboard and Cosmopolitan as among the night’s best .
- Ricky Martin electrified the stage with a Latin Icon medley, including hits like “Livin’ la Vida Loca” .
- Mariah Carey thrilled fans with a nostalgic Video Vanguard performance featuring classics like “Fantasy” and “We Belong Together.” Her presence was emotional but, according to some outlets, left audiences wanting more .
- A poignant tribute to Ozzy Osbourne featured performances by Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Yungblud, and Nuno Bettencourt .
The evening also included performances from Doja Cat, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter, Jelly Roll, J Balvin, Tate McRae, and more.
Memorable Acceptance Speeches
- Ariana Grande’s emotional acceptance for Best Pop included heartfelt thanks to her “father Edward Butera, director Christian Breslauer, the full production team, her songwriters, therapist, and ‘gay people’”—prompting a buzzworthy highlight.
- Lady Gaga made a notably brief—but impactful—speech before dashing off to her tour show at Madison Square Garden..
Fashion Highlights: Red Carpet Royale
The VMAs red carpet is a fashion spectacle, and the 2025 edition did not disappoint:
- Lady Gaga skipped the carpet entirely, instead arriving stage-side in a gothic Marc Jacobs ensemble—complete with a dramatic headpiece—melding red carpet style with concert readiness .
- Sabrina Carpenter stunned in a custom, semi-sheer Valentino gown paired with a feather boa, delivering an elegantly bold statement .
- Ariana Grande channeled retro-chic in a custom Fendi polka-dot dress styled by Law Roach, perfectly aligned with her iconic glam aesthetic .
- Doja Cat brought theatrical flair in a harlequin Balmain mini dress, accessorized with vibrant Chopard jewels, embracing a playful ’80s-inspired look .
- Other bold fashion moments included Tyla in Chanel, Latto in archival Versace, FKA Twigs in a futuristic two-piece, Ice Spice in vintage Ralph Lauren, Ciara in Schiaparelli knit, GloRilla in plaid mini, Tate McRae in Ludovic de Saint Sernin, and The Marías in Valentino.
- The 42nd MTV VMAs were more than just an awards show—they celebrated artistic legacy, rising talent, and global sounds under one roof. With bold fashion, unforgettable performances, and historically significant award wins, the 2025 VMAs stood out as a defining cultural moment.