MTV VMAs 2025: Everything to Know About the Star-Studded Awards Show

MTV VMAs 2025: Get Ready for the Star-Studded Awards Show

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards are just around the corner, set to dazzle audiences on Sunday, September 7, at the UBS Arena in New York. This highly anticipated event promises a night of glamorous performances, surprising moments, and the presentation of the iconic Moonperson trophies. LL Cool J will be hosting the show solo for the first time, while the legendary Mariah Carey will be honoured with the Video Vanguard Award. As the excitement builds, let’s delve into all the essential details surrounding the 2025 MTV VMAs.

The Nominated Artists
Leading the pack with an impressive 12 nominations is the incomparable Lady Gaga. Bruno Mars follows closely behind, sharing nominations with Gaga in various categories for their collaboration on the hit song, “Die With a Smile.” Also making waves this year are Kendrick Lamar, ROSÉ, Sabrina Carpenter, Ariana Grande, The Weeknd, Billie Eilish, and Charli XCX, among others. The introduction of new categories like Best Country and Best Pop Artist has brought in a fresh wave of talent to the mix, adding to the anticipation of the awards ceremony.

The Stellar Performers
The stage at the UBS Arena will be graced by a lineup of talented performers, including Sabrina Carpenter, Ricky Martin, Alex Warren, J Balvin featuring DJ Snake, and Busta Rhymes. Fan-favourites such as Post Malone, Doja Cat, Jelly Roll, and Tate McRae are also set to deliver electrifying performances. Lady Gaga, making a highly-anticipated return to the VMAs stage after five years, is all prepped up to wow the audience with a medley of her chart-topping hits. And let’s not forget the legendary Mariah Carey, expected to deliver a breathtaking performance to mark her receipt of the Video Vanguard Award.

The Master of Ceremonies
Steering the ship as the host for the evening is the iconic LL Cool J. With prior experience as a co-host at the 2022 MTV VMAs, LL Cool J is all set to take on the role solo this time around. Having been honoured with the Video Vanguard Award himself in 1997, LL Cool J aims to provide a night of musical celebration and entertainment for viewers, ensuring a break from the chaos of the world and a focus on the joy of music across generations and genres.

The Special Honourees
Three music industry icons will be celebrated at the 2025 MTV VMAs. Mariah Carey, the Songbird Supreme, will be bestowed with the prestigious Video Vanguard Award, acknowledging her exceptional contributions to the music world. Busta Rhymes will receive the MTV VMA Rock the Bells Visionary Award, while Ricky Martin will be honoured with the Latin Icon Award. These special recognitions add an extra layer of excitement and reverence to the event, highlighting the talents and legacies of these esteemed artists.

The Distinguished Presenters
Presenting the coveted Moon Person trophies will be a stellar lineup of celebrities including Jessica and Ashlee Simpson, Ciara, KPop Demon Hunters stars EJAE, REI AMI, and Audrey Nuna, along with other renowned personalities. The presenter list also includes Drew Barrymore, Livvy Dunne, Brittany Snow, Malin Akerman, Meg Stalter, Nikki Glaser, Paris Hilton, Ice Spice, Latto, and more. Each presenter brings their own flair and style to the ceremony, adding to the grandeur of the evening.

How to Watch
For viewers eager to catch all the action live, the 2025 MTV VMAs will be broadcast from the UBS Arena in New York on Sunday, September 7, at 8 p.m. ET. The show will be aired on CBS and MTV, with the option to stream it live on Paramount+. With a lineup of exceptional performers, deserving nominees, and special honourees, this year’s MTV VMAs promise to be a night to remember, celebrating the best in music and entertainment. Stay tuned for an unforgettable evening filled with glamour, talent, and memorable moments.