UPDATE: The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards have concluded with Lady Gaga taking the spotlight, securing an impressive four “Moon Person” trophies, including the coveted Artist of the Year. The awards ceremony, held on September 10, 2025, at UBS Arena in New York, featured Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter also in the limelight, with Grande winning Video of the Year for her hit “brighter days ahead.”
The night was a celebration of female empowerment, as women dominated the awards, winning 24 out of 30 categories. Grande, who also took home awards for Best Pop and Best Longform Video, expressed her gratitude to the audience, emphasizing the importance of healing and self-acceptance. “If you’re on that journey, please continue onward, because I promise there are brighter days ahead,” she said, inspiring many with her poignant message.
The VMAs, which aired live on CBS for the first time while still being broadcast on MTV, showcased a diverse range of performances, catering to a wide audience. Doja Cat kicked off the night with an electrifying performance, featuring Kenny G, while Sabrina Carpenter delivered a standout performance of her provocative single “Tears.” Carpenter’s act included a powerful political statement in support of the transgender community, further amplifying her acceptance speech where she thanked her cast and dancers for spreading positivity amidst societal criticism. “This world can be so full of criticism and discrimination and negativity,” she stated.
In a notable moment, Mariah Carey received her first-ever Moon Person, humorously questioning, “What in the Sam Hill took you so long?” during her acceptance speech after a mesmerizing medley. The night also honored Ricky Martin with the inaugural Latin Icon award, while icons like Busta Rhymes and Ozzy Osbourne were celebrated for their contributions to music.
With the inclusion of remote performances from Post Malone and Lady Gaga, the VMAs reflect a changing landscape in award shows, providing a mix of nostalgia and modernity. As LL Cool J hosted the event, the night served as a reminder of the VMAs’ enduring place in pop culture despite challenges faced by the MTV brand.
As fans digest the results and performances from this year’s VMAs, attention now shifts to the impact of these awards on the artists’ careers and the evolving nature of music award shows. For a complete list of winners from the 2025 VMAs, check here.
Stay tuned for more updates as the music industry continues to react to this exciting night!