Comic Chelsea Handler to front MTV VMAs

Handler hosts her own late-night chat show, Chelsea Lately

US comic Chelsea Handler is to host the MTV Video Music Awards next month.

The 35-year-old will be taking over from comedian Russell Brand, who has hosted the show for the past two years.

Handler, known for her acerbic humour, made the announcement on her cable show Chelsea Lately, which often features round table chats with hip-hop stars.

"Everyone knows that when you think of rap music and hip-hop you think of Chelsea Lately, and that's why I will be hosting," she said.

Handler will be only the second woman to host the VMAs solo - and the first since 1994, when Roseanne Barr lorded over the proceedings.

Stars expected to perform at the Los Angeles ceremony on 12 September include Ne-Yo, Justin Bieber and Kanye West, who famously interrupted Taylor Swift's acceptance speech last year.

Lady Gaga leads the nominations with a record 13 nods, ahead of rap star Eminem who scored eight.

Winners will be decided by the public who can vote for their favourite acts until 24 August, except for the best new artist category, which will close during the ceremony.