How to Watch the 2025 MTV VMAs Live Online and For Free

The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards air live on Sunday, September 7. The ceremony starts at 8 p.m. ET from the UBS Arena in New York. Legendary rapper and actor LL Cool J will host the prestigious music event. This year’s broadcast will air simultaneously on MTV and CBS for the first time.

Music fans can watch the entire show through various live TV streaming services. According to Paramount Global, the parent company, the event will also stream live on Paramount+.

Streaming Options for the MTV VMAs Ceremony

Paramount+ Premium subscribers can stream the VMAs live as they happen. New users can sign up for a seven-day free trial to watch for free. The platform is currently offering a significant discount on its annual Premium plan.

Other streaming services like Fubo and DirecTV also carry both MTV and CBS. They offer free trial periods for new subscribers. Hulu + Live TV and the more budget-friendly Philo are additional options for cord-cutters.

Major Nominees and Scheduled Performers

Lady Gaga leads the nominations with an impressive 12 nods. She is also confirmed to open the show with a performance from her new album. Bruno Mars follows with 11 nominations, and Kendrick Lamar has 10.

The performance lineup is packed with top talent. Confirmed acts include Doja Cat, Sabrina Carpenter, and Post Malone. Mariah Carey will perform as part of her Video Vanguard Award honor.

The 2025 MTV VMAs promise a night of major performances and awards. Viewers have multiple ways to stream the entire event live online. Secure a free trial to watch the 2025 MTV VMAs without any cost.

Info at your fingertips

Who is hosting the 2025 VMAs?

LL Cool J is the host for the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards. This marks his second time hosting the annual ceremony. He previously hosted in 2022 alongside Jack Harlow.

Is Taylor Swift performing at the awards?

Taylor Swift is not a confirmed performer for the 2025 VMAs. She has only one nomination this year for Artist of the Year. Her attendance at the event is also unconfirmed.

Who is receiving the Video Vanguard Award?

Mariah Carey is the 2025 Video Vanguard Award honoree. This is MTV’s lifetime achievement award for music video excellence. She will perform during the ceremony.

Can I watch the VMAs on regular cable?

Yes, the show will air on both MTV and CBS. Cable subscribers can watch it live on either channel. They can also stream it via the CBS app with their provider login.

Who has the most VMA nominations?

Lady Gaga has the most nominations with 12 total. Bruno Mars is a close second with 11 nominations for the 2025 awards. Kendrick Lamar follows with 10 nominations.