Main Highlights from the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards

The 2025 MTV VMAs took place at UBS Arena, hosted by LL Cool J, and streamed on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+. Several awards were announced early, recognizing groundbreaking artists who continue to push musical boundaries.

Rapper Busta Rhymes and singer Ricky Martin received the inaugural MTV VMA Rock the Bells Visionary Award and MTV Latin Icon Award, respectively. The event featured impressive performances, such as Lady Gaga performing live during her “Mayhem Ball World Tour” and Billie Eilish’s captivating act at Austin City Limits.

Major Winners and Nominees

Ariana Grande led with 12 nominations across the hottest categories, including Artist of the Year and Video of the Year, with Bruno Mars close behind with 11 nominations. Kendrick Lamar followed with 10 nods, while Sabrina Carpenter and Rosé with BLACKPINK each received 8. Other notable contenders include Ariana Grande, The Weeknd, Billie Eilish, and Charli XCX.

Highlighted Categories and Winners

Video of the Year

“brighter days ahead” – Ariana Grande
“BIRDS OF A FEATHER” – Billie Eilish
“Not Like Us” – Kendrick Lamar
“Die with a Smile” – Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars
“MANCHILD” – Sabrina Carpenter

Artist of the Year

Bad Bunny
Beyoncé
Kendrick Lamar
Lady Gaga
Morgan Wallen
Taylor Swift
The Weeknd

Best New Artist

Alex Warren (Winner)
Ella Langley
Gigi Perez
Lola Young
sombr
The Marías

Other Key Categories

Best Pop Artist: Ariana Grande, Charli XCX, Justin Bieber, Lorde, Miley Cyrus, Sabrina Carpenter, Tate McRae
Best Collaboration: Lady Gaga & Bruno Mars, Kendrick Lamar & SZA, Post Malone & Blake Shelton, ROSÉ & Bruno Mars, among others
Best Long Form Video: Ariana Grande, Bad Bunny, Miley Cyrus, The Weeknd
Best Direction & Art Direction: Recognizing visual storytelling by Ariana Grande, Charli XCX, Kendrick Lamar, Lady Gaga, and Miley Cyrus

More winners across genres like R&B, Hip-Hop, Alternative, Latin, Country, and Best Album categories showcase the diverse talent celebrated this year. Notable performances and moments illustrated the vibrant, boundary-breaking spirit of the awards, highlighting artists shaping the future of music.