The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, held on September 7 at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, was a night filled with electrifying performances, heartfelt tributes, and unforgettable moments. Among the evening’s highlights was a star-studded tribute to the late heavy metal legend Ozzy Osbourne, who passed away on July 22, 2025, at the age of 76. The tribute, featuring powerhouse performances by YUNGBLUD, Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, and Extreme’s Nuno Bettencourt, delivered a moving medley of Osbourne’s iconic hits, including “Crazy Train,” “Changes,” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home.” However, it was pop superstar Ariana Grande’s animated reaction to the performance that captured the internet’s attention, sparking a viral moment that became one of the most discussed highlights of the night.

A Night to Honor a Legend

Ozzy Osbourne, often referred to as the “Prince of Darkness,” left an indelible mark on the music world through his groundbreaking work with Black Sabbath and his prolific solo career. His passing, just weeks after a historic farewell concert with Black Sabbath in Birmingham, England, sent shockwaves through the global music community. The 2025 MTV VMAs, hosted by LL Cool J, provided a fitting stage to celebrate Osbourne’s legacy, given his deep ties to the network through iconic music videos, appearances on Headbanger’s Ball, and the hit reality series The Osbournes, which aired from 2002 to 2005.

The tribute began with an emotional video message from Osbourne’s son, Jack Osbourne, accompanied by his four daughters—Pearl, Andy, Minnie, and Maple. Clad in Ozzy-themed t-shirts, Jack and his family reflected on the rock icon’s remarkable musical journey. “I wish we could be there with you all tonight as you celebrate my dad’s amazing musical journey,” Jack said, his voice filled with pride. He emphasized that the tribute would honor Osbourne’s legacy and inspire future generations of rock musicians, concluding with a nod to his father’s famous phrase: “In the words of our Papa, let’s go crazy!” The crowd erupted in cheers, setting the stage for a performance that would leave a lasting impression.

The All-Star Tribute Performance

The tribute performance was a masterclass in rock and roll, bringing together some of the genre’s most celebrated figures. YUNGBLUD, a British singer-songwriter known for his high-energy performances and deep admiration for Osbourne, kicked off the medley with a frenetic rendition of “Crazy Train.” Shirtless and adorned with a golden cross necklace gifted to him by Osbourne, YUNGBLUD began the performance in the audience, hyping up the crowd before charging onto the stage. His raw, passionate delivery of the 1980 solo hit, complete with the iconic opening line, “All aboard, hahahahahaha,” electrified the arena. Guitarist Nuno Bettencourt, a longtime collaborator with Osbourne, masterfully recreated Randy Rhoads’ legendary guitar solo, adding a layer of authenticity to the performance. The stage, adorned with stained glass imagery, candelabras, and a massive purple cross, paid homage to Osbourne’s theatrical aesthetic.

The mood shifted as YUNGBLUD transitioned into Black Sabbath’s 1972 ballad “Changes,” a deeply emotional song that took on added significance following Osbourne’s passing. Donning a black fur coat, YUNGBLUD poured his heart into the performance, his voice soaring alongside pianist Adam Wakeman, a longtime member of Osbourne’s solo band and Black Sabbath. The heartfelt delivery resonated with the audience, many of whom were visibly moved by the tribute to the late rock icon.

The performance reached its emotional peak with “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” Osbourne’s 1991 solo hit and his only top 40 single on the Billboard Hot 100. Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler and Joe Perry joined YUNGBLUD on stage, with Tyler’s unmistakable vocals and Perry’s searing guitar riffs elevating the song to new heights. Bettencourt set the tone with a country-tinged acoustic intro, while Tyler and YUNGBLUD traded verses, their voices blending in a powerful duet. The performance culminated in a dramatic crescendo, with fireworks exploding and the trio standing arm-in-arm at the edge of the stage. YUNGBLUD sealed the moment with a heartfelt shout: “Ozzy forever, man!” The crowd roared in approval, and the tribute was hailed as one of the night’s most unforgettable moments.

Ariana Grande’s Viral Reaction

As the tribute unfolded, cameras panned to the audience, capturing reactions from some of the biggest names in music. Among them was Ariana Grande, whose expressive response to the performance quickly became a viral sensation. The pop superstar, who won Video of the Year for her hit “Brighter Days Ahead” and presented the Michael Jackson Video Vanguard Award to Mariah Carey, was visibly stunned by the tribute. With wide eyes, an open mouth, and her hands raised to her head, Grande’s reaction conveyed a mix of awe, admiration, and emotional resonance. Clips of her response, shared by MTV and fans alike, spread like wildfire across social media, sparking a wave of discussion.

For many, Grande’s reaction was a genuine reflection of the tribute’s impact. Fans took to platforms like X to praise her enthusiasm, with comments like, “Ariana’s face says it all ✨ goosebumps everywhere,” and “What a tribute and honor.” Others noted the emotional weight of the moment, with one user writing, “I’m been emotional right now,” capturing the collective sentiment of Osbourne’s fans. However, some critics accused Grande of being “performative” and “playing up to the cameras,” suggesting her reaction was exaggerated for attention. These criticisms were quickly countered by supporters who argued that her response was authentic, especially given the high-energy atmosphere and the significance of the tribute. “The people who are mad about it already didn’t like her,” one fan wrote on X. “It was a high-stress moment, that’s all. Leave her alone.”

Grande’s connection to the VMAs and MTV made her reaction all the more poignant. As a pop artist who has consistently pushed creative boundaries with her music videos, Grande has a deep appreciation for the platform that Osbourne helped shape through his innovative visuals and larger-than-life persona. Her visible emotion during the tribute underscored the universal impact of Osbourne’s music, which transcended genres and generations.

The Legacy of Ozzy Osbourne

The tribute performance was not just a celebration of Osbourne’s music but a testament to his enduring influence on the rock and heavy metal genres. As a co-founder of Black Sabbath, Osbourne played a pivotal role in defining heavy metal, with albums like Paranoid and Master of Reality setting the standard for the genre. His solo career, marked by hits like “Crazy Train” and “Mama, I’m Coming Home,” further cemented his status as a cultural icon. Beyond his music, Osbourne’s larger-than-life personality and willingness to embrace his eccentricities endeared him to fans worldwide.

YUNGBLUD, in particular, has been vocal about Osbourne’s impact on his career. In an interview prior to the VMAs, he described Osbourne as a “reflection of everything I went through,” noting that the rock legend’s unapologetic individuality gave him hope as a young artist. YUNGBLUD’s participation in Osbourne’s final concert, the “Back to the Beginning” farewell show in Birmingham, was a deeply personal moment, and his performance at the VMAs was a continuation of that connection. Similarly, Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Nuno Bettencourt brought their own history with Osbourne to the stage, having performed with him at various points in their careers, including the Birmingham farewell concert.

A Night of Memorable Moments

The Ozzy Osbourne tribute was just one of many standout moments at the 2025 MTV VMAs. The ceremony, broadcast live on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+, featured performances from artists like Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, Doja Cat, and Post Malone. Lady Gaga won Artist of the Year, while Sabrina Carpenter took home Best Album, and Mariah Carey was honored with the Video Vanguard Award. New categories, such as Best Country and Best Pop Artist, highlighted the diversity of the music industry, with fan votes determining the winners.

However, the Osbourne tribute stood out for its emotional resonance and the sheer star power of its performers. The medley not only honored Osbourne’s musical contributions but also served as a reminder of his ability to unite artists and fans across generations. For many, the performance was a cathartic moment, allowing them to celebrate a legend while mourning his loss.

Conclusion

The 2025 MTV VMAs will be remembered as a night of celebration, reflection, and unity, with the Ozzy Osbourne tribute serving as its emotional centerpiece. YUNGBLUD, Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Nuno Bettencourt delivered a performance that captured the spirit of the “Prince of Darkness,” blending raw energy with heartfelt emotion. Ariana Grande’s viral reaction, whether seen as genuine or performative, underscored the universal impact of the moment, sparking conversations that extended far beyond the UBS Arena. As fans continue to share clips and memories of the tribute, Osbourne’s legacy lives on, inspiring new generations of musicians and fans to “go crazy” in the name of rock and roll.