LL Cool J is set to make MTV history once again. The rap icon will host the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards on September 7, marking his first time as the show’s solo host. The event will air live from UBS Arena in New York City on CBS, MTV, and Paramount+.
A VMA veteran, LL Cool J’s history with the awards show runs deep. He won Best Rap Video in 1991 for “Mama Said Knock You Out” and became the first rapper to receive the prestigious Video Vanguard Award in 1997. He last took the VMA stage as a co-host in 2022 alongside Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow.
Related
In recent years, the VMAs have leaned heavily into hip-hop culture when selecting hosts. Nicki Minaj helmed the show solo in 2023, while Megan Thee Stallion took on the role in 2024. LL’s return as host further cements the genre’s influence over one of music’s biggest nights.
The 2025 VMAs are shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Lady Gaga leads the nominations with 12 nods, followed closely by Bruno Mars with 11 and Kendrick Lamar with 10. Rosé and Sabrina Carpenter each earned eight nominations, while Ariana Grande and The Weeknd scored seven apiece. Billie Eilish follows with six, and Charli XCX with five. Other notable contenders include Bad Bunny, Doechii, Ed Sheeran, Jelly Roll, Miley Cyrus, and Tate McRae, each with four nominations.
This year also introduces two new categories — Best Country Artist and Best Pop Artist — reflecting the VMAs’ evolving recognition of diverse genres.
Leave a Reply