The star-studded lineup for the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards continues to expand, with five additional high-profile performers now confirmed for the September spectacle. MTV announced that Doja Cat, Tate McRae, Post Malone, Jelly Roll, and Conan Gray will join an already impressive roster of artists set to take the stage at the UBS Arena in New York on September 7.
The newly announced performers will complement previously confirmed acts including Sabrina Carpenter, J Balvin, DJ Snake, Sombr, Busta Rhymes, and Mariah Carey, who is slated to receive the prestigious Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award during the ceremony.
LL Cool J will serve as host for the event, which will broadcast live on both CBS and MTV beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.
Five-time VMA winner Doja Cat returns to the VMAs stage for the first time since 2023, when she performed hits like “Attention” and “Paint the Town Red.” This year, she will deliver the television debut of her latest single, “Jealous Type,” showcasing the dynamic stage presence that has become her trademark. Doja Cat is also currently promoting her new album, Vie, and preparing for her upcoming world tour.
The 2025 ceremony highlights genre diversity with performances from Post Malone, known for his chart-topping global hits, and Jelly Roll, who has gained recognition for blending country rap and hip-hop elements. Many artists like Jelly Roll have diversified their income through sync deals that place their music in films and commercials, creating additional revenue streams beyond traditional album sales. Jelly Roll enters the ceremony with four nominations, including recognition in the Best Alternative, Best Country, and Best Hip Hop categories.
Tate McRae, celebrated for her emotive songwriting, and Conan Gray, who will perform “Vodka Cranberry” from his fourth studio album, round out the newly announced performers. Each artist has been leveraging social media advertising to build anticipation for their VMA performances and connect with their target audiences across multiple platforms.
This year’s VMAs feature an expanded category lineup, with the introduction of Best Country Artist and Best Pop Artist awards among the 19 gender-neutral categories.
Lady Gaga leads the nomination count with 12 nods, followed closely by Bruno Mars with 11 and Kendrick Lamar with 10.
Viewers can watch the VMAs live on CBS, MTV, or stream the event on Paramount+ Premium, with on-demand access becoming available to Paramount+ Essential subscribers following the broadcast.
Fan voting closed on September 5, leaving audience participation now in the hands of viewership numbers.
