The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) can be watched without cable by using streaming services that carry MTV or CBS, including Paramount+, which will stream the VMAs live as they air on CBS. Paramount+ offers both Premium and Essential plans to stream live or watch on demand the day after the live event. Other live TV streaming services that include MTV, such as DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, and Philo, also allow users to watch the VMAs without a traditional cable subscription. Some of these services offer free trials or discounts that make watching the show accessible without cable. Key options to watch the VMAs without cable:
- Paramount+ streaming service: live stream with a Premium plan or watch on demand after the event with any plan.
- Live TV streaming services carrying MTV: DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, Philo.
- Free trials from some services like Paramount+ (7 days), Philo (7 days).
- Use a VPN if outside the U.S. to access U.S.-based streaming services airing the VMAs.
The 2025 VMAs air on Sunday, Sept. 7, 2025, at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT on CBS and MTV simultaneously, and can be streamed live on Paramount+ with a Premium plan or via streaming TV services that include MTV channels.
This means it is straightforward to watch the VMAs without cable by subscribing to a streaming platform that offers MTV or CBS live streams or using free trials offered by services like Paramount+ or Philo. Using a digital antenna to watch the CBS broadcast is another cable-free method for those with access. If desired, a VPN service can help viewers outside the U.S. access these streaming platforms to watch live.
