Mariah Carey returned to the MTV Video Music Awards for the first time in 20 years to cement her icon status with a career-spanning performance.

Carey hit the stage at the 2025 VMAs on Sunday (September 7) to perform some of her biggest hits from her decades-long career. Starting with "Sugar Sweet," from her upcoming album Here for It All , the Queen of Christmas, wearing a feathered robe, serenaded male dancers in silk pajamas before ditching her feathered robe to reveal a sparkling golden body suit as she moved into her 1995 hit "Fantasy."

In addition to her performance, Carey was presented the Video Vanguard Award by Ariana Grande, which honors artists for their contributes and impact on music videos and pop culture.

In addition to Carey, the 2025 MTV VMAs, hosted by LL Cool J

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