2025 MTV Video Music Awards: When and where to watch, timing, channels, streaming options and key nominations

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) are set to kick off tonight, bringing together some of the biggest names in global music for an evening of live performances, iconic appearances and much-anticipated Moon Person trophies. The annual event, known for setting benchmarks in the music and entertainment industry, will be hosted by LL Cool J and broadcast from UBS Arena, New York.

2025 MTV Video Music Awards: When and Where to Watch

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards will be broadcast live on Sunday, September 7 at 8 p.m. ET (Monday morning IST). For the first time, the ceremony will air on CBS alongside its traditional home on MTV, as per a report by Rolling Stone

For those opting to stream, the event will be available live on the Paramount+ Premium plan, while Paramount+ Essential subscribers can catch the show the next day. Other live TV streaming platforms such as DirecTV and Philo will also carry the broadcast, both offering free trial options for new subscribers.

MTV VMA Star-Studded Line-Up

This year’s edition of the VMAs promises standout moments. Mariah Carey will receive the prestigious Video Vanguard Award, coinciding with the release of her 16th studio album later this month. She is also set to perform on stage.

Lady Gaga, who leads the nominations with 12 nods, will deliver a high-energy performance. A special tribute to Ozzy Osbourne will be staged by Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, YUNGBLUD and Nuno Bettencourt.

Scheduled performers include Doja Cat, Post Malone, Jelly Roll, and several more, making this year’s lineup a mix of legendary artists and new-generation stars.

MTV VMA: Nominees and Leading Contenders

Lady Gaga heads the list of nominees with 12, followed by Bruno Mars (11), Kendrick Lamar (10), and ROSÉ and Sabrina Carpenter with eight each.

This marks Gaga’s third time leading nominations in VMA history. She had previously topped the charts with 13 nods in 2010 and tied with nine in 2020.

Other top contenders include Ariana Grande, The Weeknd, Billie Eilish, Charli XCX, Bad Bunny, and Doechii. Categories such as Video of the Year, Artist of the Year, and Best Album remain closely contested.

MTV Video Music Awards: Nostalgia and Cultural Relevance

Once synonymous with the golden age of music television, MTV has seen its influence evolve in the digital era. While younger generations often associate the network with nostalgia, the VMAs continue to remain relevant by offering one of the few platforms where music videos, live performances, and pop culture converge on a grand stage.

The event continues to be one of the most-watched nights in entertainment, often sparking viral moments and internet conversations that last long after the final award is handed out.

2025 MTV Video Music Awards: Why It Matters

Beyond the glitz, the VMAs offer a cultural snapshot of the global music landscape each year. From fashion choices on the red carpet to live collaborations and unexpected performances, the event frequently sets the tone for trends that dominate the industry.

The availability of the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards on multiple platforms, including CBS and Paramount+, ensures wider accessibility for audiences across demographics — bridging the gap between traditional broadcast television and new-age streaming services.

FAQs

When are the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards scheduled?

The awards will be broadcast live on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 8 p.m. ET from UBS Arena, New York.

How can viewers in the U.S. watch the 2025 MTV VMAs?

The event will air live on CBS and MTV, and stream on Paramount+ Premium. DirecTV and Philo will also stream the ceremony.