James Corden to host 2017 Grammy Awards after LL Cool J steps down

James Corden has been announced as the new host of the Grammy Awards.

The British chat show host and actor will take over from LL Cool J to host the 2017 ceremony, as the hip hop star announced he would be stepping down after five year at the helm.

The Late Late Show host, who has been a huge hit with audiences in the US, has been selected to front the biggest music award ceremony of the year following his success at the Tony Awards.

“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 State on February 12,” Recording Academy President and CEO Neil Portnow told Variety.

“He's got big shoes to fill after the magnificent run we've had with LL Cool J, but James Corden is a commanding, dynamic showman who, we believe, is perfect to host the Grammy Awards.”

Corden said: “I am truly honoured to be hosting The Grammys next year. It's the biggest, most prestigious award show in music and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of such an incredible night.”

The British star is known for his love of music and is currently in the race for the UK Christmas number one single.

Corden could land the coveted chart position with The Greatest Gift for Christmas is Me, which is the soundtrack to the festive Sainsbury’s advert.

The Grammy Awards 2017 will take place on February 12, 2017.