Rapper and actor Ludacris has been picked to host the 2014 Billboard Music Awards. The announcement comes at the last minute, as the ceremony takes place this weekend.
Billboard made the announcement Wednesday. Ludacris is one of the most popular and successful acts in Hip-Hop, earning five No. 1 albums on the Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. He also has 18 Top 10 Hot 100 singles, the most for any Hip-Hop act.
Ludacris has also found success as an actor, starring in Hustle & Flow and the 2005 Best Picture Oscar winner Crash. He has also frequently appeared on Law & Order: SVU and appeared in the most recent Fast & Furious film. He was born Christopher Brian Bridges.
Billboard has continued to add new acts to the show. Just yesterday, it was confirmed that Katy Perry will perform “Birthday” live via satellite. John Legend, Florida Georgia Line, Shakira, Josh Groban, Miranda Lambert and more are also set to perform.
Jennifer Lopez will receive this year’s Billboard Icon Award in recognition of her long career in the music industry.
The 2014 Billboard Music Awards will air on ABC Sunday from the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.