The 2025 VMAs mixed career-defining wins with production hiccups and media backlash. It was a disappointing show that aspired to feel grand and often fell a bit short, coming across as muted. 

Lady Gaga led the night with four wins, including Artist of the Year and Best Collaboration for her song with Bruno Mars. The recognition cements her status as both a legacy act and a still-relevant hit maker.

Ariana Grande won Video of the Year for her song ‘Brighter Days Ahead,’ just ahead of her 2026 tour.

Sabrina Carpenter walked away with Album of the Year for “Short n’ Sweet.” Mariah Carey received her first VMA and performed a medley of classics that was equal parts nostalgic and a declaration that she’s not done yet. 

However, the night’s energy often lagged. Alex Warren won Best New Artist, though this outcome received some backlash from fans. His performance showcased his passion, but fell short of being truly memorable, as many described it as similar to a “mega church.”

Gaga’s performance was pre-recorded, draining the spontaneity that usually defines the VMAs.

Grande’s acceptance speech went viral, not for her words, but for the awkward mic placement that forced her to stand on her tiptoes.

The CBS simulcast also tightened the show’s edges, leaving critics to call it one of the more sanitized ceremonies in recent memory.

The biggest controversy came with the Best K-pop award. Lisa’s win for “Born Again,” featuring Doja Cat and RAYE, sparked fan outrage — mainly because the track feels more like a Western pop song than K-pop. With BTS’s Jimin and other strong contenders in the category, the choice raised questions about whether the VMAs still understand the genres they’re awarding.

In the end, the show felt like a balancing act that celebrated icons and elevated newcomers, while stumbling over its own production. Still, the controversies and awkwardness leave one question hanging: Are the VMAs still the edgy cultural barometer they once were, or just another polished industry showcase?