Pop-R&B icon Mariah Carey is set to accept the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards. Held at UBS Arena on Sept. 7, the ceremony marks her first VMA appearance in two decades. MTV officials announced the honor on Aug. 21.
Carey joins an elite group of Vanguard Award recipients. The accolade recognizes artists whose music videos transformed pop culture and visual artistry. Notably, despite nine previous VMA nominations, Carey has never won a Moon Person.
“I’m incredibly honored,” Carey said in a statement. “To return to the VMAs after so long is deeply moving.” The award comes full circle: Carey presented the Vanguard Award to host LL Cool J in 1997.
A Return to the Stage
Carey will mark her return to the VMA stage with a “career-spanning medley” of her greatest hits. This marks her first VMAs performance in 20 years.
“Performing again is thrilling,” she said. “I want to celebrate this journey—and the fans who made it possible.”
Carey is also nominated this year for Best R&B for her new single, “Type Dangerous.” Her 16th studio album, Here for It All, will follow on Sept. 26.
“Type Dangerous” has already turned heads. The album’s release reflects her first full-length output since Caution (2018).
The 2025 VMAs bring more milestones. It will air live on CBS and MTV, and stream on Paramount+—a first simulcast pairing for the show.
LL Cool J, another Long Island native, is the host. His solo turn concludes a long VMA partnership.
Other special honors include the Rock the Bells Visionary Award for Busta Rhymes and the Latin Icon Award for Ricky Martin. The evening will also feature performances by Sabrina Carpenter, J Balvin with DJ Snake, Busta Rhymes, Ricky Martin, Sombr and Alex Warren.
Leading nominations are held by Lady Gaga with 12, followed by Bruno Mars with 11, then Kendrick Lamar with 10.