After five years of hosting music’s biggest night, LL Cool J will be stepping down as host of the 2017 Grammy Awards. He will be replaced by comedian and talk show host James Corden, who has become famous for the Carpool Karaoke series on his Late Late Show.
Recording Academy President and CEO Neil Portnow said of the decision, “Thanks to ‘Carpool Karaoke,’ we’ve all been on some incredible rides with James, and The Recording Academy couldn’t be more excited to welcome his passion and enthusiasm for music, both as an entertainer and a fan, to the Grammy stage on February 12.
“He’s got big shoes to fill after the magnificent run we had with LL Cool J, but James Corden is a commanding, dynamic showman who, we believe, is perfect to host the Grammy Awards.”
Executive producer of the award night, Ken Ehrlich, said that Corden is “a captivating host, and I have no doubt that his musical background, personal charm and comedic instincts will resonate with our audience.”
The news follows Corden’s acclaimed hosting of the Tony Awards back in June, as well as the runaway success of his aforementioned Carpool Karaoke series. According to Variety, the series has achieved more than 2 billion views, and a spinoff series has even been purchased by Apple.
The 2017 Grammy Awards will take place at the Staples Centre in LA on Sunday, February 12 at 8 pm PT. Nominations are yet to be revealed, but one thing we do know is that independent artists who release music for free, or for streaming only, will be eligible for the first time ever thanks to Chance the Rapper.
Image: Variety