Entertainment legend LL Cool J has officially been tapped as the solo host of the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, marking the first time in the icon’s storied career that he will helm the show alone. The ceremony is slated for Sunday, Sept. 7, at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, with a live coast-to-coast broadcast on CBS, simultaneous airing on MTV, and streaming availability on Paramount+.
A celebrated figure in music and television, LL Cool J brings a rich VMA history. He first earned a Moon Person for Best Rap Video in 1991 and later became the first rapper to receive the Video Vanguard Award in 1997. More recently, he co-hosted the 2022 VMAs with Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow, and took part in notable moments honoring hip-hop’s 50th anniversary (2023) and Def Jam Recordings’ 40th (2024).
LL Cool J will also be a nominee this year, with his single “Murdergram Deaux” featuring Eminem up for Best Hip-Hop. Speaking to Rolling Out, he reflected on his long journey and legacy. While the full quote wasn’t provided, the sentiment underscores his history with the VMAs and the genre he helped shape.
This year’s nominations are stacked. Lady Gaga leads with 12 nods, followed by Bruno Mars with 11 and Kendrick Lamar with 10. Other top contenders include Rosé and Sabrina Carpenter (eight each), Ariana Grande and The Weeknd (seven each), Billie Eilish (six), and Charli XCX (five).
CBS’s decision to simulcast the VMAs on MTV marks a first, amplifying the show’s reach and establishing a high-visibility platform for music artists. Fans can expect more surprises. Additional performers, presenters and special appearances are sure to be revealed in the coming weeks.