The Behind-the-Scenes Photos from the 2025 MTV VMAs You Didn’t See (but Can’t Miss)
We love the VMAs because they give us epic moments to talk about for days. And this year is no different.
From awe-inspiring moments delivered by showbiz veterans Ricky Martin, Mariah Carey, Lady Gaga and Busta Rhymes, to younger talent such as Sabrina Carpenter, Tate McRae and Alex Warren wowing the audience with their current hits, the 2025 MTV VMAs did not disappoint.
But despite catching all of that on TV, a lot of the fun was happening in the audience and backstage, away from the cameras. Check out some of the behind-the-scenes moments that didn’t make it onscreen.
Moment with Fans
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Ariana Grande took a moment to sign some autographs for fans ahead of the show.
With the G.O.A.T
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She was then pictured clapping along as the crowd cheered for Lady Gaga.
Diva to Diva
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The “7 Rings” singer later posed with Mariah Carey backstage after she presented the music legend with this year’s Video Vanguard Award.
Latin Icon
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Latin Icon Award recipient Ricky Martin signs out after delivering a dazzling performance at the top of the show.
World’s Crossing
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Sexxy Red and Rosé give a little “bad angel, good angel” action during a break in the show.
From Memphis, with Love
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Memphis natives GloRilla and Yo Gotti sat side-by-side during the show.
Wifey for Lifey
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Hunting Wives costars Malin Akerman and Brittany Snow took a selfie (hopefully to send to the other Wives to ask about Season 2) in the audience.
Songbirds
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Sabrina Carpenter and Summer Walker showed off their fuzzy accessories.
All the Girls
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Ariana Grande was sandwiched between the stars of KATSEYE.
Sister, Sister
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Sisters Ashtin and Alix Earle hung out backstage ahead of the big show.
Just Girls
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Yoonchae gave fellow KATSEYE bandmate Sophia a quick lip gloss touch-up mid-show.
Glittery Crew
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Megan Moroney, Malin Akerman and Brittany Snow brought the shine to their section in their gleaming ensembles.
All the Drama
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Taylor Momsen and Frankie Grande traded eye makeup tips backstage (we assume).
Rockin’ Pair
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Momsen also clearly coordinated ab routines with fellow rocker Yungblud.
Backstage Baddies
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Ice Spice and Latto bring the sexy vibes before presenting Push Performance of the Year to KATSEYE.
Say Cheese
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The girlies of KATSEYE were super adorable as they got caught snapping a selfie of their own.
Girl Power
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All the girls then gathered for a stunning pic that has us wondering when the collab is coming.
New York’s Finest
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Inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award honoree Busta Rhymes posed with longtime collaborator Spliff Star as well as Joyner Lucas and Papoose.
Short and Sweet
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Sabrina Carpenter and Ariana Grande got close as they posed together during a break in the show.
Taking a Break
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Zara Larsson and Livvy Dunne kept it chill and cute while hanging out in their seats.
Star Power
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Doja Cat and FKA twigs brought some artistic flare to their outfits at this year’s show.
Crossing Paths
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Bailey Zimmerman appeared to be in party mode while hanging with Yungblud.
Date Night
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Papoose and Claressa Shields look loved up in the audience.
Credit to Nypost AND Peoples