The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards were nothing short of electrifying. Ceremony highlights included a triumphant Ariana Grande scooping the top honor—Video of the Year—for her ambitious short film “Brighter Days Ahead.” Her heartfelt acceptance speech touched on gratitude for her fans, her father’s performance debut in the video, her creative team, her therapist, and “gay people,” delivering a moment of genuine and inclusive warmth.
Meanwhile, Lady Gaga dominated as Artist of the Year and also nabbed Best Collaboration for “Die with a Smile,” which she performed alongside Bruno Mars. Gaga’s wins cemented her status as pop royalty this year.
Adding to the evening’s resonance, Mariah Carey was celebrated with the Video Vanguard Award—an emotional nod to her enduring legacy.
Held at the UBS Arena in New York, and broadcast live on CBS and MTV, the show blended glittering performances with poignant cultural statements, reaffirming the VMAs as a platform where artistry, innovation, and impact collide.
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