Sabrina Carpenter Features Drag Queens in Politically Charged VMAs Performance

At the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, Sabrina Carpenter delivered a vibrant and politically charged performance of her song "Tears," featuring a troupe of drag queens and dancers dressed as police officers, with signs advocating for trans rights such as "In Trans We Trust" and "Protect Trans Rights." The performance, inspired by the campy cult classic "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," included Emmy-winning actor Colman Domingo in drag as seen in the "Tears" music video, and embraced a vintage Hollywood glamour aesthetic. Drag performers from RuPaul's Drag Race, including William Belli and Denali Foxx, praised Carpenter's inclusive and supportive approach, highlighting the significance of queer visibility in such a high-profile moment. Sabrina's fashion throughout the night paid homage to iconic pop divas, as she wore vintage Bob Mackie pieces connected to Cher, Tina Turner, and Britney Spears, enhancing the retro theme of her performance. The event highlighted Carpenter's ongoing commitment as an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community and her creative fusion of music, fashion, and activism. Her collaboration with the drag community and the political messaging resonated strongly amid current debates over transgender rights.