The real reason why Taylor Swift skipped the 2025 VMAs; her first absence since 2021 despite major nomination

Taylor Swift was a no-show at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, held Sunday, September 7, despite fans eagerly hoping she and her new fiancé, Travis Kelce, would walk the red carpet together. Speculation about her absence circulated ahead of the event, with outlets including Page Six and USA Today reporting she would not attend. On September 5, E! News confirmed that Swift is “opting to skip” the ceremony as she prepares for the release of her upcoming album, The Life of a Showgirl, due out October 3.

Swift is nominated this year in one of the VMAs’ most coveted categories, Artist of the Year, alongside Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, The Weeknd, Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar, and Morgan Wallen. Her absence marks the first time she has missed the show since 2021.

At last year’s VMAs, Swift made headlines by thanking Kelce during her acceptance speech for Fortnight’s Video of the Year win. The couple announced their engagement just weeks ago, on August 26, sharing romantic photos in a flower-filled garden. Swift debuted a striking 10-carat diamond ring, valued at around $1 million, while the pair coordinated in matching Ralph Lauren looks.

FAQs

Where to watch the VMAs 2025?

The live broadcast of the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards is scheduled for Sunday, September 7 at 8 p.m. ET (Monday morning IST). According to a Rolling Stone report, the ceremony will be broadcast on CBS for the first time in addition to its customary home on MTV.

Will Will Taylor Swift be at the VMAs?

No, Taylor Swift will not be attending this year’s VMAs. USA Today, citing a source, confirmed that the 35-year-old, recently engaged to Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, is skipping the ceremony.

Who is performing at the 2025 VMAs?

This year’s VMAs boast a stacked lineup. Pre-show headliners KATSEYE, first-time nominees, will kick things off, while Bailey Zimmerman, The Kid LAROI, Lola Young, and Megan Moroney perform on the Extended Play stage. The main event features Sabrina Carpenter, Tate McRae, Conan Gray, Sombr, Post Malone, Doja Cat, Jelly Roll, Alex Warren, Busta Rhymes, J Balvin with DJ Snake, and Ricky Martin.