Sabrina Carpenter is set to light up the stage at this year’s MTV Video Music Awards with a performance that carries a nostalgic twist. The pop star is drawing inspiration from the 1980 classic Nine to Five, a film that cemented Dolly Parton’s place as both a music and cultural icon. Her routine is expected to mix modern pop energy with a playful nod to the movie’s style.

This year is already huge for Sabrina. She’s heading into the VMAs with eight nominations, a clear sign of how much momentum she has right now. At the show, she’ll premiere a medley that includes her hit single Manchild, the lead track from her upcoming album Man’s Best Friend, which drops later this month.

The Dolly Parton connection makes it more exciting. Sabrina recently teamed up with the country legend on a special version of her track Please, Please, Please. Their chemistry was so natural that Dolly even joked they could be related. That collaboration seems to have sparked the idea of paying tribute to Nine to Five, giving her VMA set both a fresh and nostalgic edge.

The 2025 MTV VMAs will take place on September 7 at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. For the first time, the ceremony will air not just on MTV but also live on CBS and Paramount+. The night will be hosted by LL Cool J, with special honors going to stars like Mariah Carey, Busta Rhymes, and Ricky Martin. Lady Gaga leads the nomination list with 12, while Sabrina ties with Rosé at eight.