With his trademark birds-nest hair and open-chested shirts Russell Brand is instantly recognisable in Britain. But in America he is mostly unknown, apart from a small part in Hollywood romcom Forgetting Sarah Marshall.

But all that will change when seven million expected viewers tune in to watch the MTV Video Music Awards.

The LA-based awards, which will begin at 5am British time, are being hosted by the British comedian - and are his chance to hit the big time.

Getting friendly: Ladies man Russell Brand charms pop princess Britney Spears

It is the first major US live TV appearance for the flamboyant and hedonistic 33-year-old Essex boy, who catapulted to fame in Britain after landing his own spin-off Big Brother show.

And Brand is being joined by Britney Spears, who has promised to 'surprise' viewers.

Last year her much-hyped comeback was mocked by critics, who criticised the troubled singer as being overweight, out-of-time and uninterested.

This year the 26-year-old insists she will not be singing, despite internet rumours to the contrary. Instead, she has promised something 'fun and unexpected'.

Britney Spears' performance at the 2007 awards was heavily criticised

She may well be receiving an award after being nominated for Best Female and Best Pop Video for Piece of Me.

Other performers include Kanye West, Christina Aguilera, Rihanna, Kid Rock and the Jonas Brothers.