Russell Brand to return as host of MTV Video Music Awards

For the second consecutive year, British comedian/actor Russell Brand will host the MTV Video Music Awards, which will feature performances by Taylor Swift and Muse, among others.

The 26th annual VMAs will air live from New York City's Radio City Music Hall Sept. 19. Only country-pop superstar Taylor Swift and British rock outfit Muse have been confirmed as performers thus far, though more announcements, including performers, nominees and celebrity presenters, are expected in the coming weeks.

Swift will mark her VMA debut with a new version of "You Belong With Me" from her chart-topping release "Fearless," while Muse will debut its latest single, "Uprising," from "The Resistance," the band's new album which is expected to hit shelves Sept. 15, according to the group's website.

"We are honored to be invited to play at the VMAs which will be our first ever US TV performance, and the first ever US performance of our debut single from our new album," Muse singer/guitarist Matt Bellamy said in a press release.

The 2009 MTV Video Music Awards will mark the 14th time New York City has hosted the awards show, which hands out moonmen statues in categories such as Video of the Year, Best New Artist, Best Pop Video and Best Dancing in a Video, among others.