The 2025 MTV VMAs took place Sunday night, bringing with them a chance to lock in on the buzziest names in music right now—namely, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, Rosé, Jelly Roll (…sure, why not?), and, of course, Mariah Carey.

But what were the standout moments of the night? We’re glad you asked. Here, a round-up of the five most memorable performances, speeches, and special appearances from the 2025 MTV VMAs.

Sabrina Carpenter’s timely tribute to trans rights

With Man’s Best Friend, Carpenter currently has the number-one album in the country. She made the most of her spotlight at the MTV VMAs on Sunday by performing her new song “Tears” for the first time, surrounded by drag queens holding signs that read, among other things, “Dolls Dolls Dolls” and “In Trans We Trust.” As the Trump administration ramps up its needless attacks on trans people, it’s nice to see Carpenter speak up for an oft-maligned community—without whom pop music as we know it simply wouldn’t exist. Plus, that Britney homage didn’t hurt either!

Busta Rhymes’s tribute to Ananda Lewis