Uncle L is back in the MTV spotlight!
According to PEOPLE, hip-hop icon LL COOL J will host the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards, marking his second time leading the legendary ceremony. He last took the stage as co-host in 2022 alongside Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow.
A Deep History With MTV
LL COOL J’s connection to MTV runs decades deep:
- In 1991, he won his first Moon Person for Best Rap Video.
- In 1997, he made history as the first rapper to receive the Video Vanguard Award.
- In 2023, he hit the stage for the 50 Years of Hip-Hop all-star tribute.
- In 2024, he celebrated Def Jam’s 40th anniversary alongside Public Enemy.
It’s safe to say LL isn’t just a guest at MTV’s table — he’s part of the family.
A Night of Music, History, and Star Power
The 2025 VMAs are already shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory. On August 5, MTV announced its nominee list — and it’s stacked.
Top Nominees
- Lady Gaga leads with 12 nominations — the most of her career.
- Kendrick Lamar & Bruno Mars follow with 11 nominations each.
- ROSÉ & Sabrina Carpenter land 8 nominations apiece.
- Ariana Grande & The Weeknd earn 7 nominations each.
- Billie Eilish comes in with 6 nods.
- Charli xcx scores 5 nominations.
- Beyoncé & Taylor Swift are both in the running for Artist of the Year.
LL COOL J in the Spotlight — Again
LL isn’t just hosting — he’s also a contender this year.
His track “Murdergram Deaux” — a powerhouse duet with Eminem from his 2024 album The Force — is up for Best Hip-Hop.
That means viewers will get to see the host step into the winner’s circle if the votes swing his way.
Why This Is a Big Deal
The VMAs have a history of iconic hosts — from Doja Cat to Miley Cyrus — but few bring LL COOL J’s mix of OG hip-hop credibility, live performance charisma, and MTV legacy.
With the show airing live from UBS Arena in New York for the first time and broadcasting on CBS (also a first) in addition to MTV, the event is aiming for its biggest audience yet.
When & Where to Watch
Date: Sunday, September 7, 2025
Time: 8 p.m. ET
Location: UBS Arena, New York
Watch On: CBS, MTV, and streaming on Paramount+
What to Expect
- High-energy hosting from LL COOL J
- Big wins from pop, rap, and global artists
- Unforgettable performances (lineup TBA)
- A blend of nostalgic MTV moments and fresh viral content
With LL back at the helm and a nominee list that reads like a who’s who of music royalty, the 2025 VMAs could go down as one of the most memorable in the award show’s history.
Are you excited to see LL COOL J back as host? Which 2025 VMA performance are you most hyped for? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned to The Pop Radar for more updates as the big night approaches.