2025 MTV VMAs: A Night of Historic Wins, Legendary Tributes, and Milestone Moments

Star-Studded Evening at UBS Arena

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards took place at the UBS Arena on New York’s Long Island, marking a historic moment as the ceremony was broadcast on CBS for the first time, while also streaming on Paramount+ and MTV. The event was hosted by VMA veteran LL Cool J.

Major Winners and Achievements

Lady Gaga, who entered the night with 18 previous VMA wins, led the nominations with 12 nods and emerged as the biggest winner, claiming four awards including artist of the year, best art direction, best direction, and best collaboration with Bruno Mars for “Die With a Smile.”

Ariana Grande secured three significant victories, winning video of the year and best long-form video for “Brighter Days Ahead,” as well as best pop. Similarly, Sabrina Carpenter claimed three awards: pop artist, album for “Short n’ Sweet,” and best visual effects for “Manchild.”

Special Honors and Tributes

The evening featured a special tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne, with rock legends Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith joining forces with YUNGBLUD and Nuno Bettencourt to perform a medley of Osbourne’s greatest hits.

The ceremony honored several music icons: Mariah Carey received the prestigious Video Vanguard Award and performed a medley of her career-spanning hits, Ricky Martin was celebrated with the VMA’s first Latin Icon Award, and Busta Rhymes was presented with the Rock the Bells Visionary Award. Each honoree delivered special performances featuring their greatest hits.

New Categories and Format

This year’s ceremony recognized the best music videos and songs released between June 20, 2024, and June 18, 2025, and introduced two new categories: Best Country and Best Pop Artist, both determined through fan votes.