Madonna and Lady Gaga were supposed to have a memorable moment at the 2025 MTV VMAs, with Madonna presenting an award to Lady Gaga, but Madonna declined the offer.
The producers of the award ceremony wanted both artists on stage, believing Madonna handing the trophy to Gaga would be an iconic moment, but Madonna wasn't interested.
Madonna's decision not to participate in the passing-the-torch moment may stem from existing tension between the two artists, with Madonna not wanting to play into the narrative that she was blessing Gaga.
Madonna is aware of Gaga's popularity and doesn't want to be seen as anyone's supporting act, according to a longtime music insider.
Lady Gaga won four awards at the 2025 MTV VMAs, including Artist of the Year, Best Direction, Best Art Direction for "Abracadabra," and Best Collaboration for her duet with Bruno Mars in "Die With a Smile."
Source: mandatory.com