Jessica Simpson's 'New Face' At The VMAs Stuns Fans After Being Absent For Nearly Two Decades

Jessica Simpson turned heads with her return to the MTV Video Music Awards after being absent for several years.

For her recent appearance, the singer shocked fans as she looked "different" while flaunting a wrinkle-free visage in her see-through, fitted black gown.

Jessica Simpson joined her sister, Ashlee Simpson, on stage to present the award for Best Collaboration and also handed over the show's first-ever Latin Icon Award to Ricky Martin.

After years of being absent from the VMAs, Jessica Simpson's return for the 2025 edition on Sunday night was one many didn't see coming.

The 45-year-old arrived at the ceremony looking youthful, with a wrinkle-free visage that left many questioning whether she may have had some cosmetic work done.

For the outing, the singer made a fashion statement with her dramatic yet elegant gown. The dress featured a structured off-the-shoulder neckline with sculpted black details over the bust. The rest of the gown was made of layered, crisscrossed sheer fabric that created a see-through effect while still offering coverage.

She complemented the look with sparkling long drop earrings and large statement rings on both hands. Her hairstyle was also styled into a sleek ponytail while she added dramatic embellishments to her nails.

Additionally, Simpson added to her height with a pair of heels featuring wedge bottoms and sleek straps across the top.

On social media, several netizens commented on how surprising it was to see the singer at the VMAs after her prolonged absence.

A  user wrote, "Where in the hell did they find Jessica Simpson?" while another shared, "I'm still stuck on how there's just no way that was Jessica Simpson up on that stage."

Some netizens also stated that the "Public Affair" crooner looked unrecognizable, seemingly speculating that she had undergone cosmetic surgery for her "new" face.

"Jessica Simpson, what did you do to yourself? I don't even recognize you," a netizen commented while another wrote, "Who's Jessica Simpson was that?? Not the one from my childhood!"

Fortunately, not all the online chatter was critical, as some fans chose to applaud Simpson's glamorous look.

One wrote, "Jessica Simpson has arrived at the VMAs looking like a total dime. This is shaping up to be an awesome night!"

A second commented, "Jessica Simpson looks so cute and beautiful. Wait. Why am I in such a good mood watching this show?"

On Sunday night, Simpson didn't just walk the red carpet alone; she also played an active role on stage during the ceremony.

After Ricky Martin's medley performance, she stepped up to present him with the very first Latin Icon Award.

Later in the night, she returned alongside her sister, Ashlee Simpson, to present the Best Collaboration award, which went to Lady Gaga and Bruno Mars for their hit "Die with a Smile."

Meanwhile, the singer had previously spoken on the red carpet about supporting her sister with her estranged husband, Eric Johnson, during her I Am Me residency in Las Vegas late last month.

"We are all a big, happy family, so it's important for all of us," she told E! News.

"We wouldn't have missed Ashlee, are you kidding me? It was such a moment," she continued. "I was a mess. I cried probably seven times."

Prior to her VMAs appearance, Simpson made headlines for her personal life.

In November last year, speculation about a split from Johnson began after he was seen without his wedding ring around the same time she hinted at a music comeback.

Sources close to the couple further fueled the rumors, with one claiming they were living separate lives. By January, Simpson confirmed the separation in an exclusive interview with People magazine.

"Eric and I have been living separately, navigating a painful situation in our marriage," Simpson said at the time.

"Our children come first, and we are focusing on what is best for them," she added, referencing their kids, Maxwell Drew, 13; son Ace Knute, 12; and daughter Birdie Mae, 6.

Simpson further remarked, "We are grateful for all of the love and support that has been coming our way, and appreciate privacy right now as we work through this as a family."