Fans React to Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton’s Pre-Recorded AMAs Performances

29 May 2025

Gwen Stefani performs onstage at the 2025 American Music Awards. Christopher Polk/Penske Media via Getty

The 2025 American Music Awards, held on May 26 at the newly renovated Fontainebleau Las Vegas, had plenty of glamour, surprises, and unforgettable moments. However, two of the evening’s biggest names Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton sparked controversy after it was revealed that their performances had been pre-recorded rather than delivered live, despite being promoted otherwise.

The couple’s absence from the stage was first noticed by viewers during the live broadcast on CBS and Paramount+. While fans were eagerly anticipating Blake Shelton's performance of his newest single, “Stay Country or Die Tryin’,” and Gwen Stefani’s nostalgic medley from her 2004 album Love. Angel. Music. Baby., what they witnessed instead were large screen broadcasts of previously filmed performances. The realization quickly ignited a firestorm across social media.

Stefani’s set included a touching throwback to her early solo career, blending hits like “What You Waiting For?” with her new track “Swallow My Tears.” Her performance was introduced by Shelton, also pre-recorded, raising eyebrows among fans who assumed the couple was present at the event. He wore the same outfit in both his introduction and performance video, adding to the confusion about whether any part of their segments was actually live.

The backlash online was swift. TikTok and Twitter were flooded with clips and comments, with fans expressing disappointment and even frustration at feeling misled. Many took issue with the fact that their appearances were promoted as live acts by the AMAs and CBS, only to find out they had been filmed days prior. “If they’re not going to be there, just say it,” one user posted. “Why fake it?”

Despite the controversy, the AMAs continued with a number of stellar live performances that helped balance the disappointment. Iconic musicians like Janet Jackson, Rod Stewart, Gloria Estefan, and Becky G lit up the stage with energetic and emotional performances. These live acts drew strong praise and helped refocus attention on the music, though the conversation around Stefani and Shelton’s absence lingered.

The event also made headlines for its big winners. Billie Eilish took home three of the night’s top honors: “Artist of the Year,” “Album of the Year,” and “Song of the Year.” Interestingly, Eilish also accepted her awards via pre-recorded speech, citing ongoing tour commitments. Still, her victories were widely celebrated across fan communities.

Gracie Abrams, meanwhile, earned the “New Artist of the Year” title, marking a milestone in her rising career. The award show also honored veterans and active service members in collaboration with the Easy Day Foundation, tying the entertainment event to a meaningful cause. Host Jennifer Lopez received praise for keeping the show’s energy high and delivering heartfelt tributes during key segments.

This year’s AMAs marked a notable comeback after a brief hiatus in 2024 due to scheduling conflicts with competing awards shows. The event aimed to reestablish its position as one of music’s premier celebration nights. And while the Stefani-Shelton controversy added a layer of unexpected drama, it also underscored just how invested fans remain in the authenticity of award shows.

In the days since the broadcast, neither Stefani nor Shelton has issued a public statement addressing the pre-recorded nature of their performances. Whether their decision was based on scheduling conflicts, health reasons, or strategic choices remains unclear. Still, the debate it sparked highlights the delicate balance artists and producers must strike between delivering polished content and honoring the promise of live entertainment.

Ultimately, the AMAs 2025 proved to be a blend of spectacle and controversy that, for better or worse, kept fans talking well after the final trophy was handed out.