If there’s one thing we know about the MTV Video Music Awards, it’s that they never leave anyone indifferent. Sometimes we get shows that make pop culture history (yes, Gaga’s bloody Paparazzi performance in 2009 still lives rent-free in our heads), and other times we’re left wondering if all that filler was really necessary. The 2025 edition was no exception: some shining moments, some questionable tributes, diva comebacks, and a few performances that felt more like livestreams than live spectacles.
So, if you missed it or simply want the juicy highlights, here’s the full recap—served with a side of friendly gossip and plenty of side-eye at the flops.
The Best Moments (standing ovation territory)
Ariana Grande, the comeback no one saw coming
After five years away from the VMAs, Ariana Grande showed up like nothing had changed. She was one of the first to arrive on the red carpet, rocking a black-and-white Fendi polka-dot outfit with sparkling Swarovski jewels. And she didn’t just show up to pose—she swept the stage too, taking home Video of the Year and Best Pop Video, while also handing the prestigious Video Vanguard Award to none other than Mariah Carey. That’s what we call multitasking queen behavior.
Sabrina Carpenter’s rain-soaked showstopper
If anyone stole the spotlight, it was Sabrina Carpenter. Just days after releasing her album Man’s Best Friend, she performed “Tears” for the very first time on stage—complete with a New York alley-inspired set, drag queens, and bold messages of support for the trans community. Add in the rain pouring down and choreography that channeled peak pop diva energy, and Sabrina made it clear she’s more than a catchy hook—she’s a pop powerhouse with something to say.
Gaga doing the impossible (again)
Lady Gaga started the night as the most nominated artist and ended it with some of the biggest wins, including Artist of the Year and Best Collaboration for “Die With a Smile” with Bruno Mars. Her acceptance speech was heartfelt, dedicating the award to art, her fans, and her fiancé Michael Polansky.
But the real gag? Gaga was seemingly in two places at once. Viewers saw her perform “Abracadabra” and “The Dead Dance” as part of the broadcast, while social media was blowing up with footage of her performing live at Madison Square Garden for her Mayhem Ball Tour. Basically, Gaga managed to be everywhere and nowhere all at once. Classic Gaga.
Honoring Ozzy Osbourne
July’s loss of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne left a huge void, and MTV tried to honor him with a medley of rock heavyweights: Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, YUNGBLUD, and Nuno Bettencourt all joined forces to cover Ozzy’s biggest hits. Whether you loved it or felt it didn’t quite land, it was at least a sincere attempt at giving “The Prince of Darkness” his due.
Mariah Carey, forever the diva
After decades of snubs, MTV finally gave Mariah Carey her flowers with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. Ariana Grande handed her the trophy (a symbolic “passing the torch” moment), and Mariah celebrated with a set that spanned from “Heartbreaker” to her new single “Type Dangerous.” It was glamour, nostalgia, and power vocals all in one—plus a reminder that her new album drops in September. A true diva moment.
The Not-So-Great (a.k.a. the “did we need this?” list)
Doja Cat playing it too safe
Opening the VMAs is no small task, but Doja Cat’s performance of “Jealous Type” left fans underwhelmed. It was an ’80s-themed number that felt… fine. Nothing bad, but nothing memorable either. Considering this is the same woman who once wore a chair on her head at the VMAs, the sudden seriousness felt flat. The VMAs thrive on over-the-top chaos, and this wasn’t it.
Gaga… but was she really there?
Yes, Gaga won big and delivered a moving speech, but most of her “performance” was actually a pre-taped segment from her tour. And while her towering red gown and theatrical staging were visually stunning, the energy just wasn’t the same as seeing her live in the room. Fans couldn’t help but feel the absence.
Post Malone’s remote detour
Remember the pandemic days when every award show was packed with remote performances? MTV apparently hasn’t moved on. Post Malone and Jelly Roll sounded fantastic, but their set was filmed days earlier in Germany. Sure, it looked polished, but when you market yourself as music’s biggest live night, this kind of thing feels like cheating.
The Ozzy tribute backlash
We already listed the Ozzy tribute as a highlight, but it deserves a spot here too. Many metal fans were less than thrilled with YUNGBLUD stepping into Ozzy’s shoes, calling it closer to parody than tribute. Add in Steven Tyler straining through “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” and what was meant to be a heartfelt sendoff came across as messy. The intention was good—the execution, not so much.
Tate McRae’s edgy-but-not-edgy moment
The Canadian singer took the stage with “Revolving Door” and “Sports Car,” surrounded by statue-like male models and literal sand. Yes, she even kicked sand in one guy’s face. While visually interesting, the whole thing felt more like a dress rehearsal for an NHL halftime show than a true VMAs performance. For someone trying to make a big statement, it just didn’t quite hit.
Where was the rap?
LL Cool J hosted, Busta Rhymes delivered a solid set with Glorilla, and… that was it. No big contemporary rap names, no spotlight for the genre that’s currently dominating the charts. It felt like MTV was relying on nostalgia rather than showcasing what’s actually hot in hip hop right now—and audiences definitely noticed.
So, was it a great night?
The VMAs 2025 were a rollercoaster. On the one hand, we got unforgettable highlights: Ariana Grande’s long-awaited return, Sabrina Carpenter’s bold and rain-soaked performance, and Mariah Carey finally getting her deserved Vanguard recognition. On the other, the night was bogged down by remote performances, uneven tributes, and a glaring lack of rap representation.
Did we enjoy it? Absolutely. Was there plenty to gossip about on social media? Of course. But if MTV wants the VMAs to reclaim their spot as the must-watch music event, they’ll need to take bigger risks, embrace chaos, and bring back the element of surprise.
For now, we’ll settle for this takeaway that sums it all up: Sabrina brought the vision, Ariana brought the wins, and Gaga—well, Gaga was just being Gaga.