The 2018 Video Music Awards will go on without a host this year.
“This year we opted for a tighter show,” executive producer Bruce Gillmer said at a press conference. “We want to let the music do the talking a little bit more. We love having a host, if it’s somebody that is pin-point and dead-on for what we’re looking for.”
ThisMTV VMAs previously went on without a host in 2004, 2007, 2011, 2013, 2014, and 2016.
“We’re just as happy [not having a host], and by the way, the show is just as vibrant, just as successful with or without," Gillmer added. "So this year, we’re happy that we have all the music that we have. The music will speak for itself.”
MORE: Drake Among Canadians Up For MTV VMAs
Among the musicians lighting up the stage this year are the Backstreet Boys, Cardi B, Ariana Grande, Nicki Minaj, Canada's Shawn Mendes, and more. Jennifer Lopez will be awarded the coveted Video Vanguard Award, and is expected to perform as well.
There will also be a tribute to the late Aretha Franklin.
The VMAs take place at New York City's Radio City Music Hall on Monday.
Original article by Paris Close at iHeartRadio