Britney Spears was rumored to make a highly-anticipated return to the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) stage in 2025 after nearly a decade, but a recent source reveals that she was never scheduled to perform. The pop star, who has delivered several iconic performances at the VMAs in the past, will not be gracing the stage this year. The VMAs are set to take place in New York on September 7, and fans were hopeful to see Spears perform a 10-minute medley of hits ahead of a rumored album release in September.
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Speculations about Britney Spears’ performance at the VMAs began swirling in late July, fueled by fan accounts and rumours. However, a source close to the situation clarified to PEOPLE that there were no plans for Spears to perform at the prestigious awards show. This news comes as a disappointment to fans who have eagerly awaited her comeback to the VMAs stage. Despite not performing this year, Spears has left an indelible mark on the VMAs with her past performances.
Over the years, Britney Spears has delivered memorable performances at the VMAs, including her iconic rendition of “I’m a Slave 4 U” with a python in 2001 and her steamy kiss with Madonna after performing “Like a Virgin” in 2003. Despite facing challenges, such as her 2007 performance of “Gimme More” that received criticism, Spears has continued to captivate audiences with her stage presence. In her 2023 memoir, “The Woman in Me,” Spears opened up about the pressures she faced during her career, shedding light on the struggles behind the glamour.
In 2011, Britney Spears was honoured with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the VMAs, recognising her contributions to the music industry. Her last VMAs performance was in 2016, where she graced the stage with a rendition of “Make Me” and “Me, Myself & I” alongside G-Eazy. While Spears may not be performing at this year’s VMAs, her impact on the music industry and the awards show itself remains undeniable.
Despite not being part of the VMAs lineup this year, Britney Spears continues to connect with her fans through social media, often sharing videos of herself dancing on Instagram. In a recent post, she was seen posing with her son Jayden, 18, showcasing her bond with her children. As the anticipation builds for the 2025 VMAs, fans can still look forward to an exciting lineup of artists and performances.
The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards will be broadcast live from UBS Arena in New York on Sunday, September 7. Leading the nominations this year is Lady Gaga with 12 nods, followed by Bruno Mars, Kendrick Lamar, ROSÉ, Sabrina Carpenter, Ariana Grande, The Weeknd, Billie Eilish, and Charli XCX. With an impressive lineup of talent, this year’s VMAs promise to be a night filled with unforgettable performances and well-deserved awards for the music industry’s best and brightest stars.
As the countdown to the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards begins, fans will have to wait a little longer to see Britney Spears light up the stage once again. Despite the disappointment of her absence from this year’s lineup, the VMAs are sure to deliver an exciting show with a talented roster of artists set to captivate audiences worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates on the VMAs and the latest in music and entertainment news.