The MTV Video Music Awards are no stranger to jaw-dropping performances, but Sabrina Carpenter’s set this year might just take the crown for sparking the most debate.
The 26-year-old singer brought a mix of glamour, raunchiness, and political messaging to the stage — and not everyone was on board.
While some viewers praised her bold advocacy for trans rights, others accused her of crossing the line into what they called “fetishizing” the community.
The performance — complete with drag queens, protest-style signs, and a rain-soaked dance break — left fans and critics fiercely divided.
Sabrina’s Statement Through Performance
Carpenter took to the stage at New York’s UBS Arena to perform her latest single Tears.
She was joined by drag stars Honey Balenciaga, Symone, Dashaun Wesley, and Richie Shazam, who carried signs that read: “In trans we trust”, “Protect trans rights”, and “If you hate, you’ll never get laid.”
Dressed first in a sparkly fringed dress, Sabrina later stripped down to a glittery bra and tights for a high-energy routine as rain poured onto the stage.
She ended the performance thanking her “queens on stage,” linking her artistry directly with the message she wanted to send.
Fans Push Back
Despite the applause in the arena, social media was flooded with criticism.
One fan wrote that the display felt like “weird fetishizing” and accused Carpenter of turning womanhood into a “plastic, hyperfeminine product.”
Others said turning concerts into “campaign rallies” explained why many Americans had tuned out of the VMAs altogether.
Some went further, calling the performance “performative” and “fake activism,” questioning why celebrities hold up slogans instead of donating money to communities in need.
The backlash intensified when one commenter referenced last month’s tragic school shooting in Minnesota carried out by a trans attacker, calling the timing of Carpenter’s performance “insensitive.”
Supporters Defend Her
Still, Carpenter had plenty of defenders. Many praised her for being brave enough to use such a massive platform to stand up for trans rights, calling criticism “absurd.”
Supporters argued that visibility and solidarity matter more than ever, especially in today’s political climate.
Big Wins for Sabrina
Controversy aside, the night was a career high point for Carpenter.
She walked away with the award for Best Album for Short N Sweet, triumphing over heavyweights like Lady Gaga and Kendrick Lamar. She also nabbed Best Pop Artist.
During her acceptance speech, Sabrina thanked her fans and her stage crew, but also spoke more broadly about discrimination and negativity in the world.
Many thought her words carried a subtle jab at former President Donald Trump, whose administration had rolled back protections for trans people.
A Speech Full of Gratitude
On stage, Carpenter seemed emotional and humbled:
“Hello. Oh my goodness. There’s so many people here. Well, thank you. Thank you, VMAs, for this.
This is my second moon man, which is so crazy,” she said.
She went on to thank her dancers, her “queens on stage,” and most importantly, her fans: “This world, as we all know, can be so full of criticism and discrimination and negativity.
So to get to be a part of something that can make you smile, make you dance, and make you feel like the world is your oyster, I am so grateful.”
Red Carpet Glamour
Before the performance, Carpenter turned heads on the red carpet in a glittering red Valentino gown with a lavender feather boa, channeling Jessica Rabbit vibes.
With her blonde hair styled in bouncy curls, she looked every bit the pop star stepping into her prime.
Other Big Winners of the Night
While Sabrina stole much of the spotlight, the VMAs crowned plenty of other winners.
Ariana Grande took home Video of the Year for Brighter Days Ahead, Rosé and Bruno Mars scored Song of the Year for Apt, and Mariah Carey was honored with the Video Vanguard Award.
Ricky Martin and Busta Rhymes were also celebrated with lifetime achievement-style honors.
What Comes Next for Sabrina
Whether loved or criticized, Sabrina Carpenter has made it clear she’s unafraid of mixing activism with artistry.
The night cemented her as one of pop’s most talked-about figures — a singer who doesn’t just want to entertain but wants to stir conversation.
The question is: will this brand of bold activism win her more fans, or will the backlash grow louder as she continues to push boundaries?