Overview

• The live ceremony is hosted by LL Cool J from New York’s UBS Arena and airs on CBS with a simulcast on MTV, plus streaming on Paramount+, following a one-hour preshow carried across multiple Paramount networks.
• Lady Gaga leads with 12 nominations and is slated to perform, topping a lineup that also includes Doja Cat, Post Malone, Sabrina Carpenter and Tate McRae.
• Legacy honors are set for the night, with Mariah Carey receiving the Video Vanguard Award, Ricky Martin the Latin Icon Award and Busta Rhymes the Rock the Bells Visionary Award, with performances planned.
• Red carpet coverage highlights the VMAs’ signature risk-taking style, with standout looks, dominant black palettes and eye-catching beauty trends such as big hair and vibrant makeup.
• Tabloid reports of CBS advising against overly revealing outfits have circulated without official confirmation, as mainstream outlets focused on fashion roundups rather than any new dress rules.