by Christina Cardoza
OMAHA, Neb. (Sept. 30, 2025) — September was full of headline-making moments. From the VMAs to Fashion Week to the Emmys, the spotlight shined on countless performers, actors, designers and models. For many, it was their first award or their debut on a major runway.
photo by Christina Cardoza
The MTV Video Music Awards kicked off Sept. 7 with 19 categories and more than 20 live performances. LL Cool J hosted this year’s retro-themed show. Doja Cat, Busta Rhymes featuring Gloria, Sabrina Carpenter and Somber delivered standout performances. Tate McRae’s set was described as jaw-dropping, further cementing her reputation as a rising star.
Several performers made their VMA stage debuts, including Katseye, Lola Young, Sombr, Alex Warren and Conan Gray. First-time winners included Alex Warren, Sombr, Mariah Carey, Rose, Katseye and Busta Rhymes, who each took home their first Moon Person.
New York Fashion Week ran Sept. 11–16, drawing models, celebrities and actors eager to experience the latest trends. Nebraska native Donovan Mann, a Creighton University graduate, showcased his MannMade Skills Training clothing line on Runway 7, with BabyJo as a featured model. Mann is also part owner of GM and the official clothing sponsor for an ABA professional basketball team.
The 77th Emmy Awards took place Sept. 14, recognizing artistic and technical achievements across 26 categories. Stephen Colbert received a standing ovation when he accepted the Primetime Award after the cancellation of his “Late Show.” Colbert thanked his crew, fans and expressed his love for the country.
Owen Coope set a record as the youngest actor to win an Emmy. Apple TV+ series “The Studio” earned 13 awards, the most ever for a single series. Actress Hannah Einbinder won for her role in “Hacks,” and her acceptance speech drew attention when she said, “Go Birds, f*** ICE, and free Palestine.”
Though fall has begun, the year is far from over. Media continues to evolve, and more milestones are yet to come.
“Stay true in the dark and humble in the spotlight.” — Harold B. Lee
