LL Cool J set to host the 2025 MTV VMAs

This will be LL's first time hosting the show solo after co-hosting with Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow in 2022.

This marks the rap legend's second time as host, following their co-hosting with Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow in 2022.

Grammy and VMA Award winner LL Cool J has been selected to host the 2025 MTV VMAs. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, who is also a nominee, will return to host solo after previously co-hosting in 2022 with Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow.

LL COOL J will be the host for the 2025 MTV VMAs, broadcasting live across the nation from New York's UBS Arena on Sunday, September 7, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT.

This will be his debut as the show's solo host. He co-hosted in 2022 alongside Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow. (The VMAs have recently preferred hip-hop stars as hosts. Minaj hosted solo in 2023. Megan Thee Stallion took on the role last year.)

LL has a long history with the VMAs dating back to 1991 when he took home his first Moon Person for Best Rap. He was the first rapper to receive the Video Vanguard Award in 1997.

This year, he received a nomination for his single “Murdergram Deaux” (featuring Eminem) in the Best Hip Hop category, from his highly praised 2024 album The Force.