The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards lit up the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on September 7, 2025, and it had huge performances from Sabrina Carpenter, KATSEYE, Lady Gaga, and more! Hosted by LL Cool J, the ceremony aired on CBS for the first time and streamed on Paramount+ with a simulcast on MTV. It was a night packed with music, powerful tributes, dazzling performances, and a record-breaking viewership. Lady Gaga led the pack in nominations and won the Artist of the Year category, while Ariana Grande’s Brighter Days Ahead took home Video of the Year.
Special honors went to Mariah Carey with the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award, while Busta Rhymes was recognized with the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, and Ricky Martin took the Latin Icon Award. The show saw a 42% ratings boost compared to last year, marking the highest viewership in six years.
Now, let’s break down this year’s most-watched performance on YouTube so far:
6. Tate McRae – Sports Car / Revolving Door: 1.14M views
5. KATSEYE – Gnarly: 1.15M views
4. KATSEYE – Gabriela: 1.45M views
3. Lady Gaga – Abracadabra / Dead Dance: 1.66M views
2. Ozzy Tribute Medley (Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Yungblud, Nuno Bettencourt): 1.69M views
1. Sabrina Carpenter – Tears: 1.70M views