Actor-comedian Chris Rock has been named the host of the 2003 MTV Video Music Awards. The Head Of State star has hosted the show twice before -- once in 1997, and again in 1999.

The 2003 Video Music Awards will air live from Radio City Music Hall on August 28th on MTV. The year's show marks the 20th anniversary of the event. Nominees, performers, and presenters will be announced shortly.

As a warm-up for the MTV gig, Rock will embark on a cross-country club tour beginning next week. Locations and dates have not yet been disclosed, and tickets for the engagements won't go on sale until 24 hours prior to show time, notes AP.