Jennifer Lopez set the stage ablaze at the 2025 American Music Awards with a six-minute medley of 23 hit songs—but not everyone was impressed. The 55-year-old singer-actress opened the ceremony at the Fontainebleau Hotel in Las Vegas with a high-energy performance that included hits like Billie Eilish’s Birds of a Feather, Beyoncé’s Texas Hold ‘Em, and Sabrina Carpenter’s Espresso.
However, it was her decision to kiss both male and female dancers live on stage that stirred up controversy, with fans on social media branding it “desperate” and “disgusting.” Many viewers questioned the intent behind the steamy choreography, with some suggesting Lopez was trying to provoke her ex-husband Ben Affleck, following their highly publicised divorce finalised in January. “Jennifer Lopez has lost the plot,” one X user wrote, while another asked, “Why is Jennifer Lopez kissing everyone at the AMAs?”
With notable absences from stars like Taylor Swift, Lopez seemingly carried the star power alone. She hosted the CBS-televised ceremony, marking her return to the role a decade after first hosting in 2015. Despite the controversy, the night had its high notes. Billie Eilish, currently on tour in Europe, accepted the coveted Artist of the Year award via video message, saying, “I feel speechless. I wish I could be there tonight.” Other winners included Gracie Abrams (New Artist of the Year), SZA (Best Female R&B Artist and Best R&B Song for Saturn), and Becky G (Favorite Female Latin Artist).
Star-studded lineup and special honours
The ceremony featured performances from Rod Stewart, Janet Jackson, Blake Shelton, Gloria Estefan, Reneé Rapp, and more. Jackson was honored with the Icon Award, while Stewart received the Lifetime Achievement Award. Presenters included comedians Tiffany Haddish and Nikki Glaser, actor Wayne Brady, model Cara Delevingne, and streamer Kai Cenat. Haddish even joked about Lopez’s single status, quipping, “Save a dancer for me, JLo. You ain’t the only one out here that’s single.”
A parade of bold fashion moments
Throughout the night, Lopez stunned in eight different outfits—including a beaded silver halter gown, a sequin jumpsuit with side cutouts, a fringed silver dress revealing her abs, and a daring gold dress with double slits. According to onlookers, Lopez appeared unfazed by the backlash, laughing off jokes about her personal life. The performance may have divided fans, but it was undeniably bold—just the way JLo likes it. This year marked the first time the AMAs aired on CBS, following decades on ABC since its inception in 1974. The show is also available for streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S.