The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, held on September 7 at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, were full of big wins and rising stars. Lady Gaga took home the most awards, including Artist of the Year, while several up-and-coming artists finally got their moment in the spotlight. But while the stage lit up with energy, some viewers said Mariah Carey lacked all of it.
Some audience members and viewers thought Mariah Carey’s performance wasn’t that exciting. While she sang some of her biggest hits like “Fantasy” and “We Belong Together,” she didn’t move around much and kind of just stood in one place while dancers performed around her. On X (formerly Twitter), one person wrote, “She is saving her energy for Christmas and that’s okay” ( Sept. 8, 2025). But not everyone was impressed. “Mariah Carey was roasted during MTV VMAs performance for giving ‘bare minimum’ while receiving top honor” (Sep 8 2025), stated one article.
Even though her performance got mixed reviews, Mariah still had a big night. She was given the Video Vanguard Award, which honors artists who’ve made a big impact on music videos. Ariana Grande gave her the award, and Mariah performed a special medley of her biggest songs . In the article THEWRAP Mariah stated, “I can’t believe I’m getting my first VMA tonight… What in the Sam Hill were you waiting for?” (Sept. 7, 2025). A lot of fans agreed that she deserved the award and that it was about time she got one.
Overall, the 2025 VMAs were a mix of exciting highs and unexpected moments. From Lady Gaga dominating the night to rising stars like Alex Warren, who won Best New Artist and performed his hit single “Backyard Dreams,” the night was full of fresh talent making their mark. In the article COSMOPLITIAN warren stated “It feels amazing to have this moment—I’m just getting started”(Sep 8th 2025).
Lady Gaga, Artist of the Year, gave a touching acceptance speech, MSN stated “Being an artist is an attempt to connect the souls of people all over the world. Being an artist is a discipline, a craft meant for reaching into someone’s heart, where it grows its roots, and reminding them to dream”(Sep 7th 2025). But not every moment hit the mark, and Mariah Carey’s performance showed that even legends can have off nights. Still, whether it was big wins or big opinions, the show gave everyone something to talk about.
