It's a night of music, fashion, and full-circle moments at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, but one of the evening’s most talked-about highlights already happened off the main stage.
Backstage at New York's UBS Arena, fan-favorite pop stars Ariana Grande and Sabrina Carpenter were spotted sharing a warm, candid moment after turning heads on the red carpet.
The two singers, both nominated in major categories this year, embraced, shared a casual conversation, and posed for photos. Although nothing official has been announced, fans were quick to speculate about a potential collaboration between the two artists.
Given Carpenter's growing influence in pop and Grande's return to music, the timing would be perfect. Until then, the photos of the two icons sharing a hug and a laugh will have to satisfy eager fans.
A full circle moment:
While their connection goes back years, as Carpenter once opened for Grande on the Dangerous Woman Tour, this marks the first time fans have seen them photographed together. Their unexpected backstage moment quickly went viral, with fans calling it a “full circle moment” for both artists.
“Sabrina opened for the Dangerous Woman Tour, so they’ve BEEN met. But this is the first time we’re getting photos of them together!!” one fan wrote on X. “They look good together. Time for a collab,” another commented.
Ariana and Sabrina's fashion moments:
Before the heartwarming backstage exchange, both stars had already captured media attention with bold red carpet looks that channeled old Hollywood glam and high-fashion drama.
Making her return to the VMAs after a five-year absence, Ariana Grande arrived in a stunning custom Fendi polka-dot peplum dress, styled by Law Roach and paired with dazzling Swarovski accessories.
Grande, who is currently busy filming 'Focker In-Law' and preparing for the 'Wicked Part 2' press tour, is nominated for seven awards, including Video of the Year, Best Pop Artist, Best Direction, and Best Long Form Video for “Brighter Days Ahead."
Meanwhile, Sabrina brought the drama in a floor-length red sheer lace gown, complete with sequin floral embellishments and a lavender feather boa. The singer is enjoying her success after releasing her seventh studio album, 'Man’s Best Friend', on August 29, and she's up for eight VMAs, including Video of the Year (“Manchild”), Best Pop Artist, and Best Album (Short n' Sweet).