Sabrina slayed the VMAs, all the way to the top floor

From the moment Sabrina Carpenter emerged through an actual manhole on stage, you knew you were witnessing something unforgettable. It wasn’t just theatrical – it was a statement of entrance, appearing from underground into dazzling visibility.  

Halfway through the performance, Carpenter executed a bold costume switch inside a phone booth, going from a sparkling fringe look to a rhinestone-studded bra/underwear with sheer tights. This instantly reminded most of us of Britney Spears’ legendary performances – most notably “Baby One More Time” – but Carpenter made it fresh, playful and daring all over again.  

This wasn’t merely a pop show, but it was a platform for change. Surrounded by drag performers and trans dancers, Carpenter’s posse held signs reading “Protect Trans Rights,” “Love Each Other,” “Dolls Dolls Dolls” and more. It was BOLD, prompt and more so, brave, especially in a cultural moment that desperately needed visibility and allyship.  

Critics and fans alike raved about the performance and referred to it as one of the night’s most memorable performances. Pitchfork lauded her as the artist who truly “stole the show,” calling the moment a spark of what the VMAs used to symbolize –  bigger, bolder, brighter entertainment.  

Echoing that praise, Vogue Magazine highlighted Carpenter’s performance as one of the “best moments” of the night, celebrating its cultural significance and theatrical flair.  

On top of her show-stopping performance, Carpenter came to win not one, but multiple awards, and she did just that. Carpenter won many awards, including Best Album for Short n’ Sweet, Best Pop Artist and Best Visual Effects for “Manchild.”  

Her acceptance speech was equally as memorable as she dropped an unapologetic F-bomb while addressing criticism around her latest album, Man’s Best Friend, affirming her boldness and commitment to creative freedom.