Ariana Grande’s “Brighter Days Ahead” Wins Video of the Year at Live-Broadcast VMAs

Lead Ariana Grande captured the coveted Video of the Year Moon Person for “Brighter Days Ahead” and Bad Bunny was named Artist of the Year as the 2025 MTV VMAs unfolded live from UBS Arena in Elmont, New York on Sept. 7.

Nut Graf For the first time airing live on CBS alongside MTV, the ceremony-hosted by LL Cool J-honored music’s biggest talents, spotlighted culture-defining performances and paid tribute to industry legends such as Mariah Carey, who received the Video Vanguard Award, and Ricky Martin, the inaugural Latin Icon honoree.

Major Awards and Honors

Video of the Year “Brighter Days Ahead” - Ariana Grande

Artist of the Year Bad Bunny

Song of the Year “Timeless” - The Weeknd & Playboi Carti; Runner-up: “Anxiety” - Doechii

Best New Artist Alex Warren

Video Vanguard Award Mariah Carey

Rock the Bells Visionary Award Busta Rhymes

Latin Icon Award Ricky Martin

Performance Highlights

LL Cool J opened the show with a high-energy set, followed by performances from Post Malone, Doja Cat, Jelly Roll and Sabrina Carpenter. A pre-recorded Mayhem Ball segment from Lady Gaga aired during the broadcast, fulfilling her 12-nomination evening despite being on tour in New York City.

A powerhouse Ozzy Osbourne tribute featured Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, YUNGBLUD and Nuno Bettencourt, marking one of the night’s most talked-about collaborations.

Notable Firsts and Milestones

  • First live VMAs broadcast on CBS, expanding its television audience beyond MTV viewers.
  • Rosé became the first Korean artist nominated for Video of the Year.
  • Two new Moon Person categories debuted: Best Country and Best Pop Artist, reflecting the event’s evolving genre recognition.

Ceremony Context

The 2025 VMAs maintained the network’s tradition of blending chart-topping hits with memorable red-carpet fashion statements. From Doja Cat’s glittering Balmain mini dress to Gabby Windey’s daring lace gown, the evening underscored music’s intersection with style.

Shortened versions of this report may omit later award categories and in-depth red-carpet coverage, as details taper off in descending order of significance.