The Best & Worst Moments of the AMAs 2025: Was There a Taylor Swift Announcement?

The American Music Awards (AMAs) 2025 took place on Monday, May 26, at the glitzy Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Hosted by the ever-energetic Jennifer Lopez, the night promised a mix of fan-voted awards, memorable performances, and the kind of buzzworthy moments that set social media ablaze. From iconic returns to surprising style statements, the AMAs delivered a spectacle worth dissecting.

This year’s AMAs celebrated established legends like Janet Jackson and Gwen Stefani, while also spotlighting contemporary stars such as SZA and Benson Boone. Jennifer Lopez’s high-octane hosting, complete with multiple wardrobe changes and steamy dance numbers, kept the energy levels soaring. But beyond the awards and performances, the night was filled with unexpected twists and turns, leaving fans with plenty to discuss.

In this article, we’ll dive into the best, worst, and most unforgettable moments of the 2025 AMAs. We’ll cover everything from JLo’s hosting extravaganza and SZA’s daring fashion choice to Janet Jackson’s triumphant return and the unexpected resurgence of the mullet. Plus, we’ll address the burning question on every Swiftie’s mind: Was there finally a Taylor Swift announcement?

Most, All-Around: Jennifer Lopez

Jennifer Lopez, the queen of commitment, left no stone unturned in her opening act. A medley of dance hits, including nods to “Tipsy (a Bar Song)”, “Lose Control,” and “They Not Like Us,” showcased her signature moves and boundless energy. Not to mention, a steamy kiss with both male and female dancers. JLo pulled it off all while dazzling in a nude-illusion sparkling catsuit. Mere seconds later, still catching her breath, she emerged to deliver her host monologue in a plunging silver Miss Sohee gown with a teal opera coat. Because, as she proved, why settle for anything less?

Lopez’s performance was a testament to her dedication and showmanship. As one editor noted, “Jennifer Lopez is absolutely never going to half-ass anything.” This commitment was evident in every aspect of her performance, from the intricate choreography to the seamless transitions between outfits. Her ability to command the stage and captivate the audience solidified her status as a true icon of entertainment.

Most Creative Partial Nudity: SZA

SZA made a bold statement with her fashion choice, sporting a dress that thoughtfully framed sparkly pasties and put her “butt on a shelf,” as one editor humorously noted. In a departure from the usual sheer black gowns over bras and undies, SZA’s outfit was a refreshing take on partial nudity. Slight deduction for how hard it was for her get to the mic to accept Favorite Female R&B Artist, but she laughed it off as she hopped as gracefully as she could up the stairs.

SZA’s willingness to push boundaries and challenge conventional norms was applauded by many. Her fashion choice sparked conversations and demonstrated her confidence in expressing herself through her clothing. Despite the minor hiccup in reaching the mic, SZA’s overall presence and acceptance speech were memorable, solidifying her status as a trendsetter in the music industry.

Best (Yet Most Tragic) Throwback: Nikki Glaser and Heidi Klum Denied the Chance to Rip Off Benson Boone’s Suit

Benson Boone’s striking suit was destined to be worn for the whole performance of “Mystical Magical,” much to the disappointment of Nikki Glaser and Heidi Klum, who were highly-prepared to hilariously recreate his look, but never got the chance.

The near-miss of Glaser and Klum’s comedic bit added a layer of playful anticipation to Boone’s performance. While their attempt to “rip off” his suit was ultimately unsuccessful, the moment highlighted the fun and unpredictable nature of live award shows. It also showcased the willingness of celebrities to engage in lighthearted humor and embrace the unexpected.

Most Ready to Give Thanks: Gwen Stefani

Gwen Stefani could have changed the lyrics to P-O-T-A-T-O-E-S, because in her majorette jacket worn for the “Hollaback Girl” portion of her medley, she was giving sexy Thanksgiving mascot.

Stefani’s performance was a vibrant and energetic display of her signature style. The majorette jacket added a playful touch to her outfit, evoking a sense of nostalgia and fun. Her ability to blend fashion and music seamlessly demonstrated her creativity and artistry, solidifying her status as a pop icon.

Biggest Testament to ‘Hard Work and Dedication’: Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson accepted her ICON award and gave fans a sneak peek of her Las Vegas residency, complete with choreography set to hits from her decades of work. Looking timeless since her first AMAs appearance in 1987, the star sang and danced, reminding everyone of her unparalleled talent and influence.

In her acceptance speech, Jackson shared, “I don’t consider myself an icon… We always had a special love for music, dancing and singing, and fame came with the result of hard work and dedication.” Her words resonated with aspiring artists and fans alike, emphasizing the importance of passion and perseverance in achieving success.

Best Night for Mullets: Benson Boone/Rod Stewart/Jason Tartick/Dan Smyers

The mullet made a surprising comeback at the AMAs, with Benson Boone, Rod Stewart, Jason Tartick, and Dan Smyers all sporting the business-in-front-party-in-back hairstyle. In a night that celebrated legacy acts, no ’80s icon had a better night than the mullet, the business-in-front-party-in-back staple of many a retro music video. Each made a case for the return of the hairstyle.

The resurgence of the mullet sparked a wave of nostalgia and amusement among viewers. Whether it was a deliberate fashion statement or a coincidence, the hairstyle’s presence at the AMAs added a playful and unexpected element to the night. It also served as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of fashion and the cyclical return of trends from the past.

Worst Emotional Roller Coaster: No Reputation (Taylor’s Version) Drop

Swifties were convinced Taylor Swift would announce the re-recording of Reputation at the AMAs, with clues ranging from subtle website changes to the reported appearance of the number 26 in Swift-related communications. The anticipation was palpable, but the show came and went without an announcement.

The lack of a Taylor Swift announcement left fans feeling “clowned,” as they put it. The emotional roller coaster of hope and disappointment was a major talking point after the show, with many wondering when the elusive Reputation (Taylor’s Version) will finally drop. The suspense continues…

The 2025 American Music Awards delivered a night of memorable moments, from iconic performances to unexpected fashion statements. Jennifer Lopez’s high-energy hosting, Janet Jackson’s ICON award acceptance, and the resurgence of the mullet were just a few of the highlights that kept viewers entertained. While the absence of a Taylor Swift announcement left some fans disappointed, the AMAs overall provided a vibrant celebration of music and entertainment.

The AMAs showcased the enduring power of music to bring people together and celebrate artistic achievement. The performances, awards, and speeches throughout the night highlighted the creativity, passion, and dedication of the artists involved. As the music industry continues to evolve, award shows like the AMAs serve as a platform to recognize and honor the contributions of both established legends and emerging talents.

Whether it was the fashion, the performances, or the moments of levity, the 2025 AMAs provided plenty to talk about and remember. As fans eagerly await the next big music event, the memories and highlights from this year’s AMAs will undoubtedly linger, reminding everyone of the magic and excitement that music can bring.