Why Bad Bunny Missed the 2025 MTV VMAs?

Bad Bunny was missed at the 2025 MTV VMAs tonight. The artist, who was nominated for four awards this year, skipped the ceremony due to a coinciding show for his residency in Puerto Rico.

The superstar released his sixth solo album, Debí Tirar Más Fotos, earlier this year, which he described as his “most Puerto Rican album ever.” In a January interview with The New York Times, he explained the title, which translates to “I Should Have Taken More Photos.”

“Today you can take a picture of everything,” he said. “Maybe sometimes I don’t want a picture with someone for many reasons: Maybe I’m not in my best mood. Sometimes I feel that maybe this person is not a real fan. And also because maybe I got used to it and it’s not a special moment for me…So that’s the meaning of the title—you should appreciate more the moments and the people. It’s not an apology, it’s more like a reminder to myself.”

The project, recorded entirely in Puerto Rico, blends urbano, reggaeton, and Latin trap with traditional sounds like plena and bomba. Speaking about why he chose to ground the album at home, he told The New York Times, “When you are far, sometimes you can see better, you can appreciate more.”

Bunny emphasized his commitment to keeping Puerto Rican culture central to his work, even while reaching global audiences: “I always knew that I could be big and successful being Puerto Rican, with my music and with my slang and with my culture, my everything. So I was working to reach the most places, but at the same time keeping my essence, my roots.”

Beyond music, Bunny has expanded his foray into Hollywood, filming movies like Happy Gilmore 2 with Adam Sandler and Darren Aronofsky’s Caught Stealing this year. But at the heart of his current chapter is his return to Puerto Rico; he’s using his platform to amplify younger musicians from the island. “All the salsa songs are made by young kids from escuela Libre de Música,” he told The New York Times. “Because people think, oh, now every young kid today is making reggaeton. No, there’s a lot of great, great musicians—young kids—that are only waiting for the opportunity.”

Why Karol G Wasn’t at the MTV VMAs 2025?

Karol G was nominated for Best Latin Song at tonight’s MTV VMAs, but the star didn’t show up at the Elmont, New York, ceremony. Instead, she had a huge performance on Friday, September 5, in São Paulo, Brazil. Understandably, she chose not to make the trip to New York for one nomination that she ultimately lost to Shakira.

The Colombian superstar has been building on the momentum of her Mañana Será Bonito stadium tour, which became the highest-grossing Latin tour by a female artist. The tour, which wrapped in July 2024, is now the focus of her Netflix documentary, Karol G: Tomorrow Was Beautiful, released earlier this year.

Reflecting on showing the less glamorous side of success, she told USA Today in May, “There are a lot of ups and downs, and I was like, ‘Oh my God, I am a leader,’ and I don’t know if it’s good to show those moments that I wasn’t really good or doubting myself. But for me, it’s really important to show the process.”

Karol’s current chapter has also been highlighted by new music, as she recently released her fifth studio album, Tropicoqueta. The album blends influences of vallenato, bachata, merengue, ranchera, pop, cumbia, and reggaeton, and even features her first full English-language track, “Papasito.”

“I did the translation myself because I wanted it to sound true to how I speak English,” she told Variety in June. “The story is about me seeing this guy at a party and just instantly feeling attracted to him… and maybe the guy is American, so I’m speaking my best English to get him to fall in love with me.”

On Friday, Karol performed during the NFL’s season kickoff in São Paulo, headlining the halftime show during YouTube’s first-ever exclusive NFL live broadcast of the Kansas City Chiefs game against the Los Angeles Chargers. “I’ve watched many NFL halftime shows over the years and now having this opportunity to bring my music to this global stage means the world to me,” she said in a statement.

Why Shakira Skipped the 2025 MTV VMAs?

Shakira took home the Best Latin Song award at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, but she didn’t attend the Elmont, New York, ceremony. While her song “Soltera” beat out tracks by Bad Bunny, J Balvin, Karol G, and more, Shakira remained away from the event because she had a concert that night in Guadalajara, Mexico.

Shakira has been touring throughout the country, with her next Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran show set for Puebla on September 11.

She was photographed performing in Mexico City on August 26:

Despite missing tonight’s show, the star has a longstanding connection with the VMAs. She made history in 2023 by becoming the first South American artist to receive the Video Vanguard Award, joining recipients like Beyoncé, Madonna, Janet Jackson, Rihanna, and The Beatles. Before being honored with her statuette, she gave a stunning performance of a medley of her biggest hits, including “She Wolf,” “Te Felicito,” “Objection (Tango),” “Whenever, Wherever,” “Hips Don’t Lie,” and “Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53.”

Her last performance before receiving the 2023 Vanguard Award was in 2006, when she performed with Wyclef Jean. In 2005, Shakira sang “La Tortura” with Alejandro Sanz, another moment in VMAs history as it was the first performance sung entirely in Spanish at the awards show.

When accepting the Vanguard Award, Shakira thanked her two sons, Milan and Sasha, before thanking her fans.

“Especially I want to share this award with my fans who always support me through thick and thin. Thank you so much for being my army and helping me fight all my battles. This is for you,” she said. “Lo quiero muchísimo.”

Tate McRae Brings the Naked Dress to the 2025 MTV VMAs

Tate McRae Tonight, the 2025 MTV VMAs are underway in New York, and one of music’s biggest nights promises a star-studded roster of performers. Taking the main stage this evening? Mariah Carey (who is receiving the special Vanguard Award this evening), Vogue cover star Sabrina Carpenter, J Balvin, Katseye, Yungblud, and many more artists.

Pop star Tate McRae, meanwhile, is taking a break from touring to grace the VMAs audience with her presence tonight. Shortly before performing, however, the singer walked the red carpet with her best pre-awards show dress—choosing to go sheer, no less. (For those unfamiliar with the “naked dress” trend, that would be a sheer or transparent gown that exposes the form. Celebrities love wearing them.)

Tate McRae Brings the Naked Dress to the 2025 MTV VMAs
Tate McRae

McRae chose a custom white Ludovic de Saint Sernin gown for the occasion. The floor-length maxi style featured waist cut-outs and a totally transparent skirt, deliberately exposing her white low-rise briefs and Stuart Weitzman stiletto sandals underneath. McRae is no stranger to a naked-style dress, of course: Just last year, she attended the VMAs in a sheer black lace mini dress by Roberto Cavalli, which served as an homage to the similar racy Dolce & Gabbana frock that Britney Spears wore back in 2002.

Tonight, meanwhile, her airy white look was decidedly more angelic—less vampy. Given the awards show has a history of producing bold and maximalist fashions on the red carpet, it was only natural that McRae would go for such a statement look this evening. Will she take a similar approach during her VMAs set? Tune in to find out.

But McRae has never been one to shy away from showing skin, whether performing live or in her music videos. Is that not part of pop stardom?

The best and worst looks at the 2025 MTV VMAs

Music’s biggest stars gathered in New York City’s UBS Arena on Sunday for the MTV VMAs. Hosted by hip-hop icon LL Cool J, the night featured performances from Post Malone, Busta Rhymes, and Mariah Carey, who also took home the Video Vanguard Award.

Take a look at the best and worst looks celebrities wore to the VMAs.

Doja Cat turned heads in a colorful Balmain dress.

Doja Cat turned heads in a colorful Balmain dress.

Trust Doja Cat to bring her fashion A-game to every event she attends.The pop star attended the VMAs in a pastel minidress by Balmain. Her outfit featured a plunging neckline embellished with metallic pink details. She accessorized with butter yellow heels and a clutch shaped like a giant lipstick.

Zara Larsson's sheer slip dress felt more like beachwear.

Zara Larsson’s sheer slip dress felt more like beachwear.

Swedish singer Zara Larsson wore a sheer, jewel-encrusted slip adorned with floral appliqués and strappy heels. The look seemed better suited for the beach than a red carpet.

GloRilla put a twist on the back-to-school look with a plaid ensemble.

GloRilla put a twist on the back-to-school look with a plaid ensemble.

GloRilla channeled some too-cool-for-school vibes in her plaid mini dress and blazer combo by Helen Anthony. The rapper completed her look with a fuchsia bag, peep-toe pumps, and frilly socks.

Lady Gaga turned heads in a dramatic Marc Jacobs ensemble.

Lady Gaga turned heads in a dramatic Marc Jacobs ensemble.

As expected, Lady Gaga made a dramatic entrance in a ruffled black and purple Marc Jacobs gown. She accessorized with sheer black polka-dot gloves and a towering floral headpiece, finishing the look with bold eyeshadow and glossy red lipstick. Her look was polarizing, but perfectly on brand for Gaga.

Ice Spice made a vintage Ralph Lauren ensemble look effortlessly fresh.

Ice Spice made a vintage Ralph Lauren ensemble look effortlessly fresh.

Ice Spice wore a vintage Ralph Lauren two-piece at the VMAs, which featured a Victorian-inspired corset and a patchwork maxi skirt. She swapped her signature afro for a tousled updo that channeled Pamela Anderson’s iconic ’90s glam.

Megan Stalter brought camp to the red carpet.

Megan Stalter brought camp to the red carpet.

Megan Stalter is no stranger to head-turning looks. Earlier this year, the actor wore a dress made out of recycled Diet Coke boxes. For the VMAs, she upped the theatrics by opting for a white dress with a deconstructed hoop skirt and a matching sailor-style hat. She completed her over-the-top look with a bejewelled Dunkin’ cup.

Girl group Katseye shined in simple but glamorous looks for their VMA debut.

Girl group Katseye shined in simple but glamorous looks for their VMA debut.

Global girl group Katseye traded their Gap denim for glamorous mini dresses for their VMA debut. The group, which includes Sophia Laforteza, Manon Bannerman, Daniela Avanzini, Lara Raj, Megan Skiendiel, and Yoonchae Jeung, was formed through the 2023 reality show “Dream Academy.”

Their hit song, “Touch,” won the award for MTV Push Performance of the Year.

Sabrina Carpenter's red lace dress was striking

Sabrina Carpenter’s red lace dress was striking

Sabrina Carpenter turned heads in a red, floor-length gown with strategically placed lace embellishments. She paired the see-through dress with a mismatched lilac boa draped around her arms.

But the color of her feather boa offset the look. The “Manchild” singer added a touch of old Hollywood glam with shimmery gold eyeshadow and voluminous waves. She also ended the night by taking home the award for best album.

FKA Twigs went for an edgy look with a burgundy two-piece set.

FKA Twigs went for an edgy look with a burgundy two-piece set.

FKA Twigs showed off her toned abs in an edgy burgundy ensemble and platform boots. The singer topped it off with an avant-garde hairstyle featuring braids styled to mimic headphones. Conan Gray’s nautical look felt more like a costume than eveningwear.

Conan Gray's nautical look felt more like a costume than eveningwear.

Conan Gray’s nautical look felt more like a costume than eveningwear.

Conan Gray walked the red carpet in a frilly ensemble inspired by the nautical themes of his latest album, “Wishbone.”

The puffy, exaggerated sleeves and layered ruffles gave the outfit a dramatic flair, which he topped with a sailor’s hat. While eye-catching, the look veered more into costume territory than red-carpet couture.

Audrey Nuna, Ejae, and Rei Ami slayed the red carpet in coordinated black-leather looks.

Audrey Nuna, Ejae, and Rei Ami slayed the red carpet in coordinated black-leather looks.

Audrey Nuna, Ejae, and Rei Ami — the singing voices of the fictional K-pop girl group, HUNTR/X, from “KPop Demon Hunters” — made a splash on the red carpet by coordinating their looks.

Nuna wore a floor-length puffer jacket over a halter mini dress and styled her hair up in twisted loops. Ejae went for a sleek look, layering an oversized blazer over her bandeau top, while Ami wore a black two-piece set with a fuzzy red wrap.

Ricky Martin's chest-baring ensemble leaned more plain than polished.

Ricky Martin’s chest-baring ensemble leaned more plain than polished.

Ricky Martin wore a silky, light blue shirt that showed off his tattooed chest. He rocked a buzz cut and accessorized with a few jewelled necklaces. Although he looked youthful, the ensemble fell a little flat for a red carpet event.

The Kid Laroi looked sleek in an oversized suit.

The Kid Laroi looked sleek in an oversized suit.

The Kid Laroi kept it polished in an all-white blazer and wide-leg trousers. His oversized fit featured a subtle flash of black layered underneath, which added contrast to the look.

Chance the Rapper gave off back-to-school vibes with his look.

Chance the Rapper gave off back-to-school vibes with his look.

Chance the Rapper kept it ultra-casual in an outfit consisting of a sweatshirt, baggy pants, sneakers, and a cap. The look felt more suited for school, or even the airport, than the VMAs red carpet.

Sombr made his stylish debut in a Valentino ensemble with floral motifs.

Sombr made his stylish debut in a Valentino ensemble with floral motifs.

Sombr — real name Shane Boose — made a stylish VMA debut wearing Valentino. His all-black ensemble featured embroidered floral detailing along the lapels and cuffs. He topped off the rockstar look with pointed-toe shoes with studded detail.

Tate McRae wore a sheer dress that looked better suited for the bedroom.

Tate McRae wore a sheer dress that looked better suited for the bedroom.

Tate McRae hit the red carpet in a custom sheer white gown by Ludovic de Saint Sernin. The swimsuit-inspired top and visible undies looked more like beachwear or sleepwear than eveningwear.

Ariana Grande Wins Video of the Year at 2025 MTV VMAs

Ariana Grande won the top prize of video of the year for “Brighter Days Ahead” at the 2025 Video Music Awards on Sunday night.

Grande took to the stage with the music video’s director, Christian Breslauer, to accept the award. “I want to start off again with my fans, thank you so so so much. I love you with all my heart. I have since I was a teenager, since we first crossed paths and I will for my whole life. Art has been a safe space for me since I was a kid,” she said. “I’m so grateful that I get to do this with my life and to have such fiercely loving and supportive fans. Thank you for growing with me and being so supportive of me as a human being, navigating in real time which creative itch needs to be scratched next, whether it’s acting, music, musical theater or a little bit of tour.”

The “We Can’t Be Friends” singer continued: “This project is about the hard work that is healing all different kinds of trauma and coming home to our young selves and creating safety in our own lives, which is a lifelong process and a daily exercise. If you’re on that journey, please continue onward, because I promise there are brighter days ahead.”

The 2025 VMAs was also marked Grande’s first time back since 2020. She beat out fellow video of the year nominees Billie Eilish with “Birds of a Feather,” Kendrick Lamar with “Not Like Us,” Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars with “Die With A Smile,” Rosé and Bruno Mars with “Apt.,” Sabrina Carpenter with “Manchild” and The Weeknd and Playboi Carti with “Timeless.”

Ariana Grande Wins Video of the Year at 2025 MTV VMAs

The prize is known as the most coveted award at the VMAs. In the music video, Grande is covered in prosthetic makeup to play an elderly woman named Peaches who uses a procedure to erase a relationship from her mind and has to revisit four other major memories from her life. However, she experiences a memory from her father’s perspective of him grieving her death. Grande’s real dad, Edward Butera, stars in the video alongside her.

Earlier in the night, the Wicked star also won a moon man trophy for best pop artist, where she said, “Thank you to my therapists and gay people, I love you!,” in her speech.

Other notable wins of the night included Sabrina Carpenter for album of the year, Lady Gaga for artist of the year and Alex Warren for best new artist.

Next up for Grande, she will portray Glinda the good witch again in Wicked: For Good, which is set to release in theaters Nov. 21. As far as music, she is making her grand return to touring after seven years for the Eternal Sunshine tour beginning June 6, 2026.

LL Cool J hosted the 2025 VMAs, held at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Find the complete list of winners list here and the red carpet looks here.

Rosé Wins Song of the Year at 2025 VMAs

Rose, The 28-year-old K-pop star, a member of supergroup Blackpink, took home the song of the year trophy for her collaboration with Bruno Mars.

Rosé, sporting a butter yellow gown, seemed ecstatic to win the award during her journey to the stage. She took the opportunity to thank her collaborator, promising to call Mars after she got off the stage.

During her speech, the pop star thanked several people – from her team at her Korean agency The Black Label to her U.S. label Atlantic Records – but the most important person the singer shouted out was herself. She noted that one of her fears was that she might let down her 16-year-old self throughout her journey to global stardom.

“Twelve years later, I dedicate this award to my 16-year-old self who dreamed,” Rosé told the crowd. “And to all those who watched me grow into the artist I am today and placed their dreams in me to make this change. Every single one of you has put me here and now I believe there is no imposter in the world when MTV has given me this award here at the VMAs.”

Rosé also shouted out her fellow Blackpink members, Jisoo, Jennie and Lisa, along with Teddy Park, the group’s long-time producer and co-founder of her solo label, The Black Label. She broke into Korean for each shout out.

In a somewhat unprecedented move, the singer also mentioned her therapist to close out her speech. “As my therapist tells me to do everyday, I’d like to thank myself for not giving up even in the toughest of times,” she said, met with cheers from the audience. “Always remember you’ve got you.”

Shailene Woodley Velvet Rebellion at TIFF 2025

Shailene Woodley didn’t just attend the Motor City premiere at TIFF—she orchestrated a quiet coup in camel velvet, proving once again that understatement is the new spectacle (and that the rest of us should probably just surrender now).

There’s a particular kind of magic that happens when an actress known for her effortless, earthy charm steps into a look that’s equal parts architectural and inviting. At the Motor City press studio during the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival, Shailene Woodley did just that—transforming a simple staircase into a runway for what can only be described as a masterclass in modern minimalism.

Shailene Woodley Velvet Rebellion at TIFF 2025
Shailene Woodley

The centerpiece? A Max Mara Verna Camel Coat with Belt, a piece so luxuriously understated it borders on subversive. The coat, draped in a sumptuous velvet fabric, wraps Woodley in a cocoon of warm camel—its rich texture catching the light like a whispered secret. The silhouette is deceptively simple: a structured collar, three-quarter sleeves, and a belted waist that cinches the look into something both polished and effortless. The coat’s mid-thigh length plays with proportion, offering a nod to the ’70s while feeling entirely of-the-moment.

Woodley’s styling choices are a lesson in restraint with impact. Her Max Mara Mary Janes in Leather—classic, pointed, and unadorned—elongate her frame and ground the look in timeless elegance. The shoes’ dark hue provides a stark contrast to the coat’s warmth, creating a visual rhythm that’s as pleasing as it is intentional. And then there’s the ring, a delicate gold band on her left hand, catching the light just enough to remind us that sometimes, less truly is more.

Shailene Woodley Velvet Rebellion at TIFF 2025

This isn’t just an outfit; it’s a statement. In an era where red carpet looks often veer toward the extravagant, Woodley’s choice to embrace quiet luxury is a refreshing pivot. The velvet coat, with its tactile richness, evokes a sense of nostalgia—harking back to the tactile glamour of Old Hollywood, while the clean lines and modern cut keep it firmly rooted in 2025. It’s a look that whispers rather than shouts, a rebellion against the noise of fast fashion and fleeting trends.

Samara Weaving Debuts Polka Dot Precision at TIFF’s Getty Studio

Samara Weaving leans into retro flirtation with a modern edge—her polka-dot satin mini and camera-ready poise turning TIFF’s Getty Studio into a style vignette.

Samara Weaving knows how to make a moment feel cinematic. At the Getty Images Portrait Studio presented by IMDb and IMDbPro during the Toronto International Film Festival 2025, she delivered a look that felt like a still from a lost Sofia Coppola short—quiet, poised, and unmistakably styled.

Samara Weaving Debuts Polka Dot Precision at TIFF’s Getty Studio

Weaving wore the Frankies Bikinis x Khy Kenley Satin Mini Dress—a black number scattered with white polka dots, cut with thin shoulder straps and a fitted bodice that flares subtly at the hem. The satin finish gives the dress a gentle sheen, catching light without overwhelming the eye. It’s a silhouette that balances youthful charm with editorial clarity, the kind of piece that could swing from press junket to cocktail hour without missing a beat.

Samara Weaving Debuts Polka Dot Precision at TIFF’s Getty Studio

No visible jewelry, no handbag distractions—just the dress, the pose, and the mood. The absence of accessories feels intentional, allowing the polka dots and satin texture to take center stage. It’s a styling move that aligns with the current wave of pared-back celebrity style, where restraint is the new luxury.

Charli XCX fused lingerie-inspired lace with a distinctly modern

Never one to shy from a sartorial statement, Charli XCX fused lingerie-inspired lace with a distinctly modern, zippered silhouette for her red carpet return (and frankly, a welcome one) at the TIFF premiere.

The Toronto International Film Festival often serves as a barometer for what’s next in both cinema and style, and this year, it seems the answer is an unapologetic blend of soft femininity and hard-edged nonchalance. Stepping onto the red carpet for the premiere of Sacrifice, Charli XCX delivered a look that felt both delicate and daring, perfectly capturing the push-pull of her unique aesthetic.

Charli XCX fused lingerie-inspired lace with a distinctly modern

Charli’s dress—a striking shade of sage green—was a standout for its raw yet refined construction. The silky fabric draped effortlessly, while a prominent zipper running down the center gave the garment a utilitarian, almost deconstructed feel. The most arresting detail was the rich, brown lace trim that lined the hem, creating an intriguing contrast between the dress’s modern shape and a more vintage, boudoir feel. It’s a look that challenges expectations, refusing to be categorized as either overtly sexy or simply sweet.

Charli XCX fused lingerie-inspired lace with a distinctly modern

The singer grounded her ethereal dress with a pair of sleek, black Saint Laurent Amalia Slingback Pumps in patent leather, adding a glossy finish that echoed the dress’s luxurious sheen. Her only notable accessory was a solitaire engagement ring from Claude Morady, a simple and elegant touch that didn’t compete with the complexity of her outfit. For beauty, Charli kept her look clean and sharp.

Her signature long, dark hair was styled sleek and straight, while a classic smoky eye and a nude lip underscored the look’s sophisticated mood. It’s a masterclass in balance: every piece, from the shoes to the makeup, serves to elevate the main event—the dress itself. This appearance is an excellent example of the bold choices that define modern celebrity style.