Overview
- Sabrina Carpenter's 'Espresso' won Song of the Year, drawing louder applause than Taylor Swift and Beyoncé.
- Chappell Roan was a standout, winning Best New Artist and commanding attention with her medieval-themed performance.
- Megan Thee Stallion paid homage to Britney Spears' 2001 VMAs performance, complete with a live snake.
- The giant astronaut helmet at the UBS Center served as a dynamic second screen, enhancing key performances.
- Several major awards, including Artist of the Year, were not announced in the arena, focusing instead on show-stopping performances.