Your Guide to Watching the 2025 VMAs Live: Time, Channel, and More!
Whether you’re placing bets on the biggest winners or tuning in for the spectacular fashion and unforgettable performances, the MTV Video Music Awards 2025 promise to be an exciting highlight of the year’s music scene.
With headlining acts like Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga, and Sabrina Carpenter, along with hip-hop icon LL Cool J returning as host, the anticipation is building for an unforgettable night.
What to Know About the 2025 MTV VMAs
- When: The VMAs will kick off on Sunday, September 7, at 8 p.m. ET. Make sure to catch the red carpet pre-show starting at 7 p.m. ET.
- Where: This year’s event will take place at the UBS Arena, located in Elmont, New York.
- Channel: You can watch the festivities via a live stream on CBS.
- Streaming Options: Enjoy a five-day free trial on DirecTV, which includes CBS.
Keep reading for all the details on performances and viewing options!
When Does the 2025 MTV VMAs Start?
The main event will begin at 8 p.m. ET on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the UBS Arena in New York. If you’re interested in soaking up the glamour from the red carpet, be sure to tune in early at 7 p.m. ET.
How to Stream the 2025 VMAs for Free
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If you’re not a cable subscriber, a fantastic option for streaming is DirecTV, which allows a five-day free trial for new users. Following that, subscriptions start at $59.99/month.
Alternatively, you could try Hulu + Live TV, which offers a three-day free trial for fans wanting to catch all the action.
Who’s Hosting the VMAs This Year?
LL Cool J is set to host the 2025 MTV VMAs solo for the very first time. Previously, he co-hosted with Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow in 2022. This year, he’s taking the reins as the main emcee on the big night.
Who Will Be Performing at the 2025 VMAs?
AP
Among the star-studded lineup is Lady Gaga, who leads the nominations, along with other exceptional artists such as Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat, Post Malone, and Mariah Carey, who will also be honored with the Video Vanguard Award.
Fans can expect an emotional tribute to the late Ozzy Osbourne featuring performances from Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, YUNGBLUD, and Nuno Bettencourt.
Confirmed 2025 VMAs Performers
- Alex Warren
- Busta Rhymes
- Conan Gray
- Doja Cat
- J Balvin, DJ Snake, Justin Quiles, Lenny Tavárez
- Jelly Roll
- Lady Gaga
- Mariah Carey
- Post Malone
- Ricky Martin
- Sabrina Carpenter
- Sombr
- Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Yungblud, Nuno Bettencourt for Ozzy Osbourne tribute
- Tate McRae
Notable Nominations at the 2025 VMAs
Leading the pack is Lady Gaga with an impressive 12 nominations, followed closely by Bruno Mars with 11 and Kendrick Lamar with 10. Below are key nominees for this year’s awards:
Artist of the Year:
- Bad Bunny
- Beyoncé
- Kendrick Lamar
- Lady Gaga
- Taylor Swift
- Morgan Wallen
- The Weeknd
Video of the Year:
- Ariana Grande – “Brighter Days Ahead”
- Billie Eilish – “Birds of a Feather”
- Kendrick Lamar – “Not Like Us”
- Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars – “Die with a Smile”
- Rosé and Bruno Mars – “Apt.”
- Sabrina Carpenter – “Manchild”
- The Weeknd and Playboi Carti – “Timeless”
Best New Artist:
- Alex Warren
- Ella Langley
- Gigi Perez
- Lola Young
- Sombr
- The Marías
Song of the Year:
- Alex Warren – “Ordinary”
- Billie Eilish – “Birds of a Feather”
- Gracie Abrams – “I Love You, I’m Sorry”
- Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars – “Die with a Smile”
- Rosé and Bruno Mars – “Apt.”
- Tate McRae – “Sports Car”
Get Ready for the Show!
The excitement surrounding the MTV Video Music Awards is palpable as we get closer to showtime. Whether you’re more interested in the glitz and glamour or the music itself, this is definitely a can’t-miss event. How will you be celebrating this iconic night in music?
