MTV Picks Comedian Maniscalco to Host 'VMAs'

Comedian Sebastian Maniscalco was named host of MTV’s Video Music Awards.

The VMAs will appear live on Aug. 26 from the Prudential Center in Newark, N.J.

The announcement was made Tuesday on The Tonight Show.

Maniscalco has a comedy special on Netflix and his book Stay Hungry was a best seller. He’s also appeared in movies including Green Book and the upcoming The Irishman.

“We’re thrilled to have the incredibly talented Sebastian Maniscalco as this year’s VMA host,” said Bruce Gillmer, MTV VMAs’ executive producer, global head of music and talent, Viacom and co-brand head, MTV International. “Sebastian is on fire right now and his comedic spin on relatable topics will make this year’s show truly unforgettable.”

This year’s VMAs are sponsored by Extra Refreshers, Pepsi, Taco Bell and Toyota Corolla.

Jon Lafayette

Jon has been business editor of Broadcasting+Cable since 2010. He focuses on revenue-generating activities, including advertising and distribution, as well as executive intrigue and merger and acquisition activity. Just about any story is fair game, if a dollar sign can make its way into the article. Before B+C, Jon covered the industry for TVWeek, Cable World, Electronic Media, Advertising Age and The New York Post. A native New Yorker, Jon is hiding in plain sight in the suburbs of Chicago.