The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, broadcast live from the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on September 7th, was a night of dazzling performances and heartfelt tributes. Hosted by the iconic LL Cool J, the ceremony honored the year's biggest artists and music videos, with Lady Gaga leading the nominations with twelve.

Lady Gaga, a dominant force throughout the evening, took home the coveted Artist of the Year award. She dedicated the win to her fiancé, Michael Polansky, acknowledging him as her "partner in all things". Gaga, who pre-recorded her VMAs performance due to a scheduling conflict with her Mayhem Ball tour stop at Madison Square Garden, still made a surprise appearance to accept her award. She stunned in a massive black gown by Marc Jacobs, featuring floral lace embroidery and voluminous sleeves. Her pre-recorded performance included her songs "Abracadabra" and "The Dead Dance".

One of the most anticipated moments of the night was the presentation of the Video Vanguard Award to Mariah Carey. Ariana Grande, a long-time admirer, presented the award to Carey, who last performed on the VMA stage in 2005. Carey delivered a medley of her greatest hits, including "Sugar Sweet," "Fantasy," "Honey," "Heartbreaker," "Obsessed," "It's Like That," and "We Belong Together," showcasing her enduring influence on pop music and music video culture. Carey also won her first-ever Moon Person for Best R&B for her "Type Dangerous" music video. Accepting the Vanguard Award, Carey humorously questioned what took so long, marking it as only her second-ever VMA win. For her performance, Carey sparkled in a lingerie-inspired silk robe, later revealing a dazzling gold romper underneath.

Ricky Martin was honored with the first-ever Latin Icon Award, marking a significant acknowledgment of the impact of Latin artists on global pop culture. Jessica Simpson, who opened for Martin on tour early in her career, presented the award. Martin delivered a high-energy performance of his classic hits, including "Livin' la Vida Loca," "Shake Your Bon-Bon," "Maria," and "The Cup of Life". The award was dedicated to his children. Martin, who bared some skin on the red carpet in a loosely buttoned shirt, expressed his gratitude to fans for their support over his 40-year career.

The show also featured a moving tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne. Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Yungblud, and Nuno Bettencourt joined forces to honor the heavy metal legend, who passed away on July 22nd. The tribute included a medley of Osbourne's iconic songs, such as "Crazy Train," "Changes," and "Mama, I'm Coming Home". Yungblud paid homage by wearing Osbourne's cross necklace on the red carpet.

Other notable moments included performances from Sabrina Carpenter, Jelly Roll, Post Malone, Doja Cat, and Tate McRae. Tate McRae won Best New Artist. The VMAs also introduced two new categories this year, Best Country and Best Pop Artist, which were determined by fan votes.