The 41st MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) took place in New York City on September 7, 2025, with LL Cool J as the host. The event featured performances by prominent artists like Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, Alex Warren, and sombr. Presenters included stars such as Ashlee Simpson Ross, Brittany Snow, Ciara, Ice Spice, Jessica Simpson, Latto, and Megan Stalter. The ceremony was broadcast live on CBS for the first time.
Doja Cat initiated the show with a nod to the 1980s, appearing as Max Headroom on a large screen. Kenny G accompanied her on stage for her song “Jealous Type.”
Lady Gaga led with 12 nominations and won Artist of the Year, presented by Lenny Kravitz. A segment of her Madison Square Garden concert was also shown. Sabrina Carpenter, who secured wins for Best Pop and Best Album, performed her new song “Tears,” accompanied by dancers promoting trans rights and anti-hate messages.
Mariah Carey, Ricky Martin, and Busta Rhymes were recipients of career achievement awards, while Yungblud and Aerosmith paid tribute to the late rocker Ozzy Osbourne.
Full list of winners are listed below.
