Taylor Swift did not attend the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, despite being nominated for Artist of the Year. No public statement from Swift or her representative confirmed why she was absent. Reports suggested her single nomination might have been a factor, but that remains speculation.
Was Taylor Swift at the 2025 VMAs?
No. Reports published before and on the night of the ceremony said Swift would not attend the September 7, 2025, show at UBS Arena in New York. Us Weekly reported her absence on September 5, and ELLE also reported it on ceremony night.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
![1989 (Taylor's Version)[2 LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41bwpFCj9rL._SL160_.jpg)
|
1989 (Taylor's Version)[2 LP] | $44.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
![The Life of a Showgirl[Sweat & Vanilla Perfume Orange Glitter Vinyl]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51kY4q0L+2L._SL160_.jpg)
|
The Life of a Showgirl[Sweat & Vanilla Perfume Orange Glitter Vinyl] | $26.30 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
![Fearless Platinum Edition[2 LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51QAe16MRjL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Fearless Platinum Edition[2 LP] | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
![Midnights[Jade Green Edition LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41573DgTorL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Midnights[Jade Green Edition LP] | $19.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
![Red[2 LP]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51reeYJZWoL._SL160_.jpg)
|
Red[2 LP] | $24.97 | Buy on Amazon |
Why did Taylor Swift skip the VMAs?
Her reason was not publicly confirmed in the official material and news reports reviewed. Coverage floated the possibility that her one nomination played a part, but no source established that as her motive. Other suggested explanations—including her schedule, her album plans, or a deliberate snub—should not be treated as fact.
Her album The Life of a Showgirl was scheduled for release on October 3, 2025, less than a month after the ceremony. That timing was noted in contemporary coverage, but it does not establish that the album caused her absence. Us Weekly’s September 5 report provides that release context.
#1 Best Overall
- The 1989 album changed my life in countless ways, and it fills me with such excitement to announce that my version of it will be out October 27th
Was Taylor Swift nominated for a 2025 VMA?
Yes. Swift received one nomination, for Artist of the Year, according to MTV and Paramount’s official nominations announcement. The Associated Press reported that Lady Gaga led the 2025 field with 12 nominations; Swift had led nominations in each of the previous two years.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How did her 2025 nominations compare with 2024?
Swift had 12 nominations and won seven awards at the 2024 VMAs, according to Harper’s Bazaar. The drop to one nomination in 2025 is a notable contrast. Harper’s Bazaar framed the lower nomination count as a likely explanation for her absence, not as a reason Swift herself had confirmed.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- Taylor Swift's 10th studio album Midnights was released on October 21, 2022
Rank #3
Rank #2
- Taylor Swift's 12th studio album, The Life of a Showgirl, will be released worldwide October 3, 2025
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
