The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards took place at UBS Arena in New York, hosted by LL Cool J and broadcast on CBS for the first time. Lady Gaga dominated the event with four wins out of twelve nominations, including Artist of the Year[2]. Ariana Grande took home Video of the Year for “brighter days ahead”[1].
Sabrina Carpenter also secured three awards, making her one of the top winners alongside Grande[2]. Among the special honors, Mariah Carey was awarded the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, Busta Rhymes received the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, and Ricky Martin earned the Latin Icon Award[1][2].
The night featured performances by Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, Tate McRae, Doja Cat, Post Malone, and tributes by artists including Yungblud and Aerosmith’s Joe Perry and Steven Tyler[1].
Key 2025 MTV VMA Winners:
- Artist of the Year: Lady Gaga[2]
- Video of the Year: Ariana Grande – “brighter days ahead”[1]
- Best Long Form Video: Ariana Grande – “brighter days ahead”[1]
- Best New Artist: Tate McRae – “Just Keep Watching”[4]
- Video for Good: Burna Boy – “Higher”[1]
- Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award: Mariah Carey[1][2]
- Rock the Bells Visionary Award: Busta Rhymes[1][2]
- Latin Icon Award: Ricky Martin[1][2]