It was evident that Lady Gaga was poised for a remarkable evening at the 2025 VMAs, held at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on Sunday, September 7. With an impressive track record over the past year, Gaga was not just another nominee; she was a standout contender, boasting an incredible 12 nominations, more than any other artist this year.
As the night unfolded, it became clear that Lady Gaga was the star of the show, clinching four prestigious awards, more than any other artist in attendance. This significant achievement further solidifies her status as a powerhouse in the music industry, showcasing her unparalleled talent and artistry.
No one was surprised when LL Cool J took the stage as the host for the evening. Known for his smooth charisma, LL Cool J has a wealth of experience, having co-hosted the VMAs in 2021 and hosted the Grammys on five different occasions. His effortless style and engaging presence made him an effective host for this star-studded event.
In the lead-up to the event, several major awards had already been announced, including the Video Vanguard Award awarded to Mariah Carey, the Latin Icon Award given to Ricky Martin, and the Rock the Bells Visionary Award presented to Busta Rhymes. These early announcements set the stage for an exciting night filled with recognition for outstanding talent across various genres.
Despite the pre-announced accolades, the show was not short on surprises. Fans were taken aback on Sunday morning when the finalists for the New Artist of the Year category were narrowed down from six to three. While Alex Warren and sombr made the cut as anticipated, the third slot was awarded to The Marías, unexpectedly edging out contenders like Gigi Perez, Lola Young, and Ella Langley. Many had speculated that Young would secure the third position, making this decision a notable talking point of the evening.
As with any major awards show, the 2025 VMAs was not devoid of snubs and surprises, a hallmark of such events. This night, filled with memorable moments and unexpected results, exemplified the excitement and unpredictability that fans have come to love about the VMAs. As the night concluded, it was clear that Lady Gaga's triumphs and the surprises throughout the evening would be the talk of the town for weeks to come.
