The MTV Video Music Awards are no stranger to iconic moments, but Sunday night’s ceremony will forever be remembered as the night Mariah Carey reigned supreme. The legendary singer lit up the stage in true diva fashion, dazzling in a sparkling gold bodysuit and boots, accessorized with $10 million worth of Levuma diamonds. Carey’s glittering ensemble was completed with a Rosée Éternelle diamond necklace and earrings, along with a sleek bracelet from Etho Maria, all carefully styled by longtime collaborator Wilfredo Rosado.
Mariah didn’t just arrive—she owned the night. Delivering a breathtaking medley that included fan favorites “Sugar Sweet,” “Fantasy,” “Honey,” “Obsessed,” and “It’s Like That,” Carey reminded the world why she’s not only one of music’s most decorated artists but also one of its most enduring storytellers.
The evening reached a peak when Ariana Grande took the stage to present Carey with the coveted Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award. Ever witty, Carey opened her acceptance speech with a playful jab: “I can’t believe I’m getting my first VMA tonight. I just have one question… what in the Sam Hill were you waiting for?”
From there, she turned heartfelt, reflecting on the importance of visual artistry in her career:
“Music videos are my way of life, of bringing music to my own life… mini movies visualizing the sheer fantasy of it all. And let’s be honest, sometimes there’s just an excuse to bring the drama and do things I wouldn’t do in real life”.
With her signature grace, Carey concluded with a message that resonated deeply with fans and artists alike:
“After all this time, I’ve learned that music evolves, videos evolve, but the fun, that is eternal. Thank you, MTV, for playing my videos. And to our fans, the Lambily, I love you so much”.
From the glittering diamonds to the golden performance, Mariah Carey proved once again that her brilliance is timeless. The 2025 VMAs didn’t just celebrate her career, they crowned her legacy.
