The MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) on CBS is officially happening, and it’s a huge deal for music fans. For the first time ever, the VMAs are heading to network TV, with CBS airing the 2025 show live.
This historic move was confirmed on Thursday and it means the iconic awards show is expanding beyond cable. The three-hour broadcast will simulcast across CBS, MTV, and Paramount+, making it more accessible than ever for fans to tune in and watch the biggest names in music get their Moon Person trophies.
The 2025 MTV VMAs will air live from UBS Arena on Sunday, September 7, from 8 to 11 PM ET (or 5 to 8 PM PT). And it’s not just the main show that’s getting the star treatment – there’ll also be a one-hour live pre-show airing across all Paramount Media Networks. Basically, the red carpet, the performances, the wins – all of it will be easier to catch, whether you’re watching from your couch or streaming it on your phone.
Executive producers for the show include Bruce Gillmer and Jesse Ignjatovic, co-founder of Den of Thieves, a production company that’s known for high-energy, star-studded events. Barb Bialkowski is on board as co-executive producer, while Alicia Portugal and Jackie Barba are overseeing production. On the talent side, Wendy Plaut is handling the celebrity bookings, and Lisa Lauricella is in charge of locking down the music talent.
This shift to airing the MTV VMAs on CBS in 2025 comes after a huge year for the VMAs. The 2024 broadcast brought in the biggest audience the show’s had in four years, pulling in 4.09 million viewers across MTV, 11 other Paramount-owned cable channels, and UniMás. That was an 8% jump from the 2023 numbers and the highest overall viewership since 2020. Not bad for a show that’s been around since 1984.
Last year’s show saw Taylor Swift absolutely dominate the night, winning seven awards, including Video of the Year for her Fortnight collab with Post Malone. Sabrina Carpenter scored Song of the Year, and Chappell Roan was crowned Best New Artist. With that kind of energy behind it, it’s no wonder that CBS wants in on the action.
While we don’t have the 2025 nominations or performer lineup yet, it’s safe to expect some big names and viral moments. The VMAs have always been the kind of show where anything can happen – from unforgettable red carpet outfits to surprise collabs and wild on-stage antics. The addition of CBS means even more people will be watching, which probably means the performers will be going even bigger than usual.
This year’s theme seems to be accessibility and impact. Putting the MTV Video Music Awards on CBS opens the door for new viewers who might not normally tune in on MTV or stream it. It’s a smart move for Paramount too, considering the streaming + broadcast combo worked so well with the Grammy Awards, which also air on CBS and stream on Paramount+. The synergy is real, and it looks like the VMAs are leveling up with it.
So mark your calendars for September 7, because this year’s VMAs are gonna be everywhere. Whether you’re a Swiftie hoping for another sweep, or just tuning in for the chaos and live performances, the fact that the MTV Video Music Awards on CBS is even happening makes this year’s show a must-watch.
What do you think about the MTV Video Music Awards on CBS this year? Are you hyped to see the show finally hit network TV? Drop your predictions for who’s going to perform or take home the big wins in the comments. And don’t forget to tune in September 7- whether you’re watching live on CBS, MTV, or streaming it on Paramount+, this VMAs is shaping up to be one of the biggest yet.
Jamie Wells has a knack for getting the inside scoop on Hollywood’s biggest stars and up-and-coming talent. With a sharp eye for industry trends and an ear for viral moments, Jamie covers everything from red-carpet events to behind-the-scenes drama in movies, TV, and celebrity culture.
Source:https://themusicessentials.com/entertainment/2025-mtv-vmas-to-air-on-cbs-for-the-first-time-here-is-everything-to-expect/