At the 2025 iHeartRadio Music Awards, Mariah Carey was honored with the prestigious Icon Award, celebrating her illustrious career and enduring impact on the music industry. The event featured tribute performances by artists Muni Long and Tori Kelly, who delivered renditions of Carey’s iconic hits. However, it was Carey’s reaction during Long’s performance of “We Belong Together” that captured widespread attention and sparked extensive discussions online.
During Muni Long’s heartfelt rendition of “We Belong Together,” cameras captured a moment where Carey appeared to turn her head away from the stage, offering a side-eye glance. This brief expression was perceived by many as a sign of disapproval or indifference, quickly becoming a viral meme across social media platforms. Fans and viewers speculated about the meaning behind her reaction, with some interpreting it as dissatisfaction with the performance, while others viewed it as a typical “diva” moment characteristic of Carey’s public persona.
Despite the buzz surrounding her reaction, Carey maintained her composure and grace throughout the event. Upon accepting the Icon Award, she delivered a speech that was both heartfelt and humorous. She began by playfully addressing the audience, asking, “Is the lighting OK? Because I don’t like bad lighting,” a comment that elicited laughter and showcased her attention to detail and signature wit.
In her speech, Carey reflected on her journey in the music industry, expressing gratitude for her enduring connection with fans and the magic she still feels when hearing her songs on the radio. She also paid a touching tribute to her late mother, Patricia Carey, acknowledging her for imparting the gift of music and shaping her artistic path. This acknowledgment added depth to her acceptance speech, highlighting the personal influences behind her monumental career.
The incident underscores the complexities of live performances and the varied interpretations that can arise from unscripted moments. While some viewers perceived Carey’s reaction as “rude,” others defended her, suggesting that her expressions are often candid and not necessarily indicative of her true feelings about the performance. This event also highlights the rapidity with which social media amplifies such moments, transforming brief reactions into widespread discussions and memes.
In the broader context of the awards ceremony, Carey’s reaction became one of the most talked-about moments, overshadowing other performances and speeches. It serves as a testament to her enduring presence in pop culture, where even her subtle gestures can ignite conversations and capture public interest. The incident also reflects the public’s fascination with celebrity behaviors, particularly those that deviate from expected norms during high-profile events.
Ultimately, while Muni Long’s performance was intended as a tribute to honor Carey’s legacy, the ensuing focus shifted to Carey’s demeanor, illustrating how audience perceptions can pivot based on spontaneous reactions. Whether viewed as a candid moment of disapproval or a misinterpreted gesture, the episode contributed to the ongoing narrative of Mariah Carey’s storied career and her complex relationship with the media and public perception.
