MTV VMAs 2025: A Night of Historic Wins, Iconic Performances, and Groundbreaking Moments
A Milestone Evening for Music’s Biggest Stars
The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, held at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on September 7, marked a historic moment as the ceremony was broadcast on CBS for the first time, alongside its traditional MTV home and Paramount+ streaming.
Lady Gaga dominated the night with 12 nominations and ultimately secured four victories, including artist of the year, best art direction, best direction, and best collaboration for ‘Die With a Smile’ with Bruno Mars.
Major Winners and Breakthrough Moments
Ariana Grande emerged as another significant winner, claiming three Moon Person trophies: video of the year and best long-form video for ‘Brighter Days Ahead,’ as well as best pop. Sabrina Carpenter celebrated a personal milestone, taking home the Best Album award for ‘Short n’ Sweet,’ marking her second Moon Person trophy.
Legendary Honours and Special Recognition
Mariah Carey made a triumphant return to the VMAs after 20 years, delivering a medley of her hits before receiving the prestigious Video Vanguard Award from Ariana Grande. This marked Carey’s first-ever ‘Moon Person’ trophy.
The ceremony also introduced two new special awards: Busta Rhymes received the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, while Ricky Martin was honored with the inaugural Latin Icon Award.
Innovation and Inclusivity
This year’s VMAs introduced two new categories – Best Country and Best Pop Artist – through fan votes. The ceremony also highlighted the impact of social media on the music industry, with newcomers like Alex Warren winning best new artist and Megan Moroney securing victory in the newly introduced best country category.
In a remarkable display of dedication, Lady Gaga managed to balance her VMAs appearance with her Mayhem Ball tour, delivering a pre-recorded performance of ‘Abracadabra’ and ‘The Dead Dance’ from Madison Square Garden that was broadcast during the ceremony.
