Hip-Hop legend and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee LL CooL J is set to take center stage as the solo host of the 2025 MTV “VMAs,” airing live coast-to-coast from New York’s UBS Arena on Sunday, September 7, at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT. The show will broadcast on CBS, simulcast on MTV, and stream on Paramount+ in the U.S.
The GRAMMY and VMA Award-winner returns to the “VMAs” stage after co-hosting in 2022 alongside Nicki Minaj and Jack Harlow, but this marks the first time he will hold the reins alone. LL CooL J’s history with the show stretches back over three decades — from winning his first Moon Person in 1991 for “Best Rap” to becoming the first rapper to receive the prestigious Video Vanguard Award in 1997.
His memorable VMA moments include a powerhouse Def Jam Recordings 40th anniversary celebration with Public Enemy in 2024 and the all-star tribute to Hip-Hop’s 50th anniversary in 2023. This year, he’s not just hosting — he’s also nominated for “Best Hip-Hop” with his single “Murdergram Deaux” featuring Eminem, from his 2024 critically acclaimed album The Force.
Behind the scenes, the 2025 “VMAs” are produced by Gunpowder & Sky, with Bruce Gillmer, Den of Thieves co-founder Jesse Ignjatovic, and Barb Bialkowski serving as executive producers. Alicia Portugal joins as co-executive producer, while Jackie Barba is executive in charge of production. Wendy Plaut heads celebrity talent relations, and Lisa Lauricella oversees music talent.
The show’s official sponsors include BACARDÍ Rum, Burger King, DORITOS, Downy Unstopables, Dunkin’, The General Insurance, PANTENE, and Under Armour, ensuring that the night will be as much about cultural impact as it is about star power.
With LL CooL J at the helm, fans can expect a blend of nostalgia, Hip-Hop history, and fresh, high-energy performances — all wrapped in one of music’s biggest nights.
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