The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) brought glitz, glamour, and unforgettable performances to New York on Tuesday night, with Ariana Grande taking home the coveted Video of the Year trophy. The star-studded ceremony celebrated the biggest names in music, blending nostalgia with the excitement of today’s chart-toppers.
Ariana Grande’s Big Win
Ariana Grande emerged as the night’s top winner with her hit single “eternal sunshine” crowned Video of the Year, beating out nominees from Beyoncé, Drake, Billie Eilish, and SZA. The award solidifies Grande’s position as one of the defining artists of her generation, further extending her impressive run of accolades at the VMAs.
In her emotional acceptance speech, Grande thanked her fans known as the Arianators for “sticking with me through every era,” before dedicating the award to her late grandfather, who she said “always believed in my music before anyone else did.”
Show-Stopping Performances
The VMAs stage once again delivered jaw-dropping performances across genres:
- Lady Gaga opened the night with a futuristic medley, complete with holographic visuals and powerful vocals that set the tone for the evening.
- Mariah Carey stunned with a rare medley of her classic ballads and a surprise performance of her new single, reminding fans why she remains one of the greatest voices in music.
- Rising sensation Ice Spice electrified the crowd with her infectious stage energy, proving she’s here to stay.
- Post Malone, Doja Cat, and The Weeknd also lit up the stage with unforgettable sets.
One of the most emotional moments came when Billie Eilish performed her ballad “Blue Skies,” accompanied by a full orchestra, earning a standing ovation.
Other Major Winners
Aside from Ariana’s triumph, several stars walked away with moon person trophies:
- Best New Artist: Tate McRae
- Best Collaboration: Beyoncé ft. Travis Scott – Cosmic Love
- Song of the Year: Olivia Rodrigo – Venom
- Artist of the Year: The Weeknd
K-pop also had its moment, with NewJeans snagging Best K-Pop Video, while Stray Kids took home Best Group.
A Night of Culture & Conversation
This year’s VMAs weren’t just about music. The event spotlighted cultural themes like AI in music, sustainability in touring, and inclusivity on stage. Several artists used their speeches to highlight social issues, including voting rights ahead of the 2026 U.S. midterm elections.
With Ariana Grande’s emotional win, powerhouse performances by Gaga and Carey, and fresh energy from newcomers, the 2025 MTV VMAs once again lived up to its reputation as music’s biggest spectacle. It was a night where legends, superstars, and rising icons all