Russell Brand spices VMAs

Most likely to do something outrageous, and therefore watchable, on the MTV Video Music Awards: just announced host Russell Brand.

Least likely: the first and only announced performers at this point, the squeaky clean moppets known as the Jonas Brothers.

We had to point out this massive disconnect. Not that the VMAs or any other MTV awards show has ever had a shred of consistency. But this strikes us as an especially mismatched lineup, early though it is in the whole "reveal" process.

Brand, who's parlaying "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" into a real U.S. career driver, did a stint not long ago with the legendary Sex Pistols guitarist Steve Jones on the Jonesy's Jukebox radio show here in L.A. (Indie 103.1). And a delightfully bawdy time was had by all. If we didn't love him already, we truly did after that.

Brand's continuing to try to conquer the Americas with another Nick Stoller/Judd Apatow movie, "Get Him to the Greek," where his out-of-control "Sarah Marshall" rock star gets top billing and another assist from Jonah Hill.

Just imagine, if he were really let loose on the VMAs, the damage the saucy Brit could do to the Jonas trio's skinny jeans and purity rings. But alas, that's not bloody likely.

Anyway, what happened to Brit Brit? Not another word about a comeback after the "comeback" after the multiple breakdowns and aborted rehab. MTV honchos teased the idea of her appearing, and then left us to guess whether it's true or just wishful thinking. Maybe they're saving that announcement to last? We'll be listening.

The VMAs will air live on Sept. 9.