UPDATE: The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) have just concluded, with Lady Gaga emerging as the standout winner, taking home a staggering four “Moon Person” trophies, including the prestigious artist of the year award. The star-studded event took place last night, September 12, 2025, at the UBS Arena in New York, hosted by LL Cool J.
In a powerful showing, Ariana Grande also made headlines, winning three awards, including video of the year for her uplifting anthem “brighter days ahead.” Grande delivered an emotional message to fans, 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 stated, resonating deeply with attendees.
This year’s VMAs marked a pivotal moment in the landscape of pop music, with women dominating the awards, winning a remarkable 24 out of 30 categories. This trend reflects the growing influence of female artists like Grande, Gaga, and Sabrina Carpenter, who also took home three awards. Carpenter’s provocative performance of “Tears” was a highlight, showcasing her boldness and commitment to social issues.
The show featured a mix of legacy icons and new talent, aiming to appeal to a diverse audience. Noteworthy performances included Mariah Carey, who received her first Moon Person after a stunning medley, and Ricky Martin, awarded the first-ever Latin Icon award, thrilling the crowd with “Livin’ La Vida Loca.” The evening also paid tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne, with Yungblud and Aerosmith‘s Steven Tyler honoring his legacy.
In a significant shift, the VMAs aired live on CBS for the first time, while still being broadcast on MTV, reflecting the network’s evolution in the digital age. The inclusion of remote performances from stars like Post Malone and Lady Gaga raised questions about the relevance of award shows in today’s entertainment landscape.
As the dust settles on this year’s VMAs, fans and artists alike are buzzing with excitement over the winners and memorable performances. The impact of these awards is felt not just in the music industry, but in the broader cultural conversation surrounding representation and empowerment.
Stay tuned for more updates and a complete list of winners from the 2025 MTV VMAs. The conversation is just beginning, and we want to hear your thoughts on this year’s standout moments!
