The MTV Video Music Awards were back in full force this year, and the numbers prove it. After years of dwindling attention, the show pulled in its biggest audience since 2019, proving the VMAs can still deliver culture-shifting performances and viral-worthy moments. Between Lady Gaga’s domination, Ariana Grande’s heartfelt wins, and Sabrina Carpenter’s political performance, the night gave us plenty to talk about—and the ratings finally caught up to the hype.
Ratings Rocket to a Six-Year High
For the first time ever, the VMAs were simulcast not only on MTV but also CBS and Paramount+. That strategic move paid off big, with a whopping 42% jump in viewership. Over 5.5 million people tuned in, making it the most-watched VMAs since 2019. In an era where award shows struggle to stay relevant, that’s a massive win for MTV and proof that the right mix of star power and platform accessibility can still bring in the crowds.
Lady Gaga: The Night’s Queen—and a Quick Exit
If there was one artist who owned the VMAs, it was Lady Gaga. She walked into the night with a record twelve nominations and walked away with four trophies, including the coveted Artist of the Year. Gaga, ever the showwoman, didn’t just stop there. She stunned with a theatrical performance before hopping across town to Madison Square Garden to keep the energy going at her Mayhem Ball tour. Her set transitioned from the playful “Abracadabra” into the hauntingly cinematic “The Dead Dance,” proving once again why she’s one of music’s most fearless innovators.
Ariana Grande’s Emotional Wins
While Gaga brought the spectacle, Ariana Grande brought the emotion. She picked up both Video of the Year and Best Pop Video for “Brighter Days Ahead.” Her acceptance speech was raw and heartfelt—thanking her therapist, her LGBTQ+ fans, and everyone who’s stood by her during her creative reinventions. It was classic Ariana: vulnerable, a little cheeky, and full of gratitude. For fans, it was a reminder of why she’s not just a pop star but a voice of her generation.
Sabrina Carpenter Turns Pop Into Protest
One of the night’s most talked-about performances came from Sabrina Carpenter, who used her stage time to make a statement. Performing her new single “Tears,” Carpenter surrounded herself with drag performers carrying signs that read “Protect Trans Rights.” The performance built into a rain-soaked, disco-fueled finale that fused artistry with activism. In a year when music and politics are colliding more than ever, Carpenter showed she’s not afraid to use her platform to spark conversation.
Tributes, Legends, and First-Time Honors
The VMAs are known for honoring icons, and this year delivered in a big way. Mariah Carey finally received her long-overdue Video Vanguard Award. True to form, she turned the moment into both a celebration and a playful read, asking the audience, “What in the Sam Hell were you waiting for?” Her medley of hits reminded everyone why she remains a pop legend.
Rock royalty also took the stage to salute the late Ozzy Osbourne. Yungblud, Steven Tyler, and Joe Perry tore through “Crazy Train,” “Changes,” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home” in a thunderous tribute that brought metal energy to the VMAs.
Hip-hop icon Busta Rhymes made history too, accepting the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award. He joked about the delay—“it only took 35 years”—before unleashing a career-spanning medley. The set ended with a surprise cameo from GloRilla, bridging generations of rap energy in one performance.
Rosé Makes K-Pop History and New Categories Debut
BLACKPINK’s Rosé etched her name in the history books as the first K-pop soloist to win Song of the Year, sharing the honor with Bruno Mars for their collaboration “APT.” It was a huge milestone not just for her but for K-pop’s growing global footprint.
The VMAs also rolled out new categories this year. Megan Moroney became the first winner of Best Country, reflecting the genre’s crossover moment in pop culture. Best Pop Artist also debuted, spotlighting the acts who are shaping the charts right now.
Performances Bring the Party, Nostalgia Brings the Laughs
Beyond the big names, the VMAs packed the night with high-energy performances. Doja Cat, Tate McRae, Post Malone, and J Balvin all brought fresh, electrifying sets that had fans buzzing online. And in true VMAs fashion, the night sprinkled in some nostalgia: Ciara, Paris and Nicky Hilton, and even Snooki popped up, turning the show into a millennial fever dream.
The VMA Vibe in a Nutshell
This year’s VMAs struck a rare balance between entertainment and empowerment. Lady Gaga gave us pure artistry, Ariana Grande gave us heart, Sabrina Carpenter gave us politics wrapped in glitter, and Mariah Carey finally got her flowers. Add in history-making wins, powerful tributes, and a healthy dose of nostalgia, and you’ve got a show that reminded us why the VMAs once defined pop culture—and maybe still can. With the ratings to back it up, MTV is back in the conversation.
