2025 MTV VMAs: Winners, Performances & After‑Party Highlights
The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards turned the night into a full‑on showcase of music, drama, and style. If you missed it, don’t worry – I’ve broken down the must‑know bits so you can catch up fast.
Big Wins and Surprising Moments
Lady Gaga walked away with the most awards, nabbing four trophies after leading the nominations with twelve. Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter weren’t far behind, each grabbing three wins. Bruno Mars, despite eleven nods, settled for two awards, matching Tate McRae, Doechii, and even Mariah Carey, who also earned two.
The show added two new categories – Best Country and Best Pop Artist – and opened fan voting from Aug 5 to Sep 5. Voters also got a chance to pick the Best New Artist right up until the broadcast ended, so the audience had real influence on the outcome.
One of the most talked‑about moments was the Ozzy Osbourne tribute. Yungblud kicked things off with a gritty rendition of “Crazy Train,” then Steven Tyler and Joe Perry joined for “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” Nuno Bettencourt shredded the guitar solo, and the tribute felt like a bridge between generations. It wasn’t just a performance; it was a heartfelt goodbye to a rock legend.
After‑Party Fashion & Memorable Tributes
When the VMA stage lights dimmed, New York’s rooftop venues turned into fashion runways. Tate McRae went bold in a sheer dress that made headlines, while BLACKPINK’s Rosé (yes, the Rosé) sparkled in fringe and pins, stealing the spotlight. Mariah Carey switched from her classic glamour to a rocker‑chic look after receiving the Vanguard honor.
Sabrina Carpenter’s after‑party had a Studio 54 vibe, complete with disco balls and neon. The vibe was relaxed but still full of eye‑catching outfits, proving that the VMA after‑party can be as iconic as the awards themselves.
Beyond the fashion, the night saw a mix of surprise guest appearances. Some fans were thrilled to see The Weeknd’s “After Hours Til Dawn” tour hints, while others debated the limited coverage on platforms like Pitchfork, which faced geo‑blocks and paywalls that left many scrambling for recaps.
All in all, the 2025 MTV VMAs delivered the drama, music, and style we expect from a big‑night award show. Whether you’re a fan of the big wins, the tribute moments, or the after‑party fashion, there’s plenty to talk about. Keep an eye on next year’s nominees – the bar is set high, and we’ll be here to break it down for you.
Ozzy Osbourne Tribute Stuns at 2025 MTV VMAs: YUNGBLUD, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry Lead 8-Minute Medley
An all-star crew honored Ozzy Osbourne at the 2025 MTV VMAs with an eight-minute medley led by YUNGBLUD and featuring Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Nuno Bettencourt. The set rolled through “Crazy Train,” “Changes,” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” and aired live from New York City. YUNGBLUD wore Ozzy’s cross and called him his “northstar,” while performers nodded to Ozzy’s recent farewell shows.