LL Cool J, who is among the nominees at this year’s MTV Video Music Awards, will do double duty at the show, as it was announced Thursday he will also serve as the night’s host.
The rapper will take the VMAs stage solo for the first time, after previously serving as co-emcee in 2022 with Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow. LL Cool J has a long history with the show as well, as he took home his first Moon Person in 1991 for best rap, was the first rapper to receive the Video Vanguard Award in 1997, and has performed in tributes for Def Jam Recording’s 40th anniversary and for hip-hop turning 50. This year, his single “Murdergram Deux” (ft. Eminem) is nominated for the best hip-hop category, off of his recent album The Force.
This year’s solo gig follows his 2022 co-hosting turn with Jack Harlow and Nicki Minaj. He steps into a role previously held by Megan Thee Stallion in 2024 and by Minaj in 2023. LL’s relationship with the VMAs spans decades. He won Best Rap Video in 1991 for “Mama Said Knock You Out” and became the first rapper to receive the Video Vanguard Award in 1997.
The awards will air on CBS for the first time in addition to their longtime home on MTV and stream live on Paramount+ (for subscribers to the service’s premium plan). Former MTV head Van Toffler and his company Gunpowder & Sky will produce the show along with Den of Thieves. Additional performers, presenters and special guests to be revealed in the coming weeks.