MTV got everyone excited and wondering what Britney Spears is going to do to open this year's MTV Video Music Awards, which air this Sunday. While the network insists the troubled pop singer will not be performing, she is expected to at least make some introductions. In fact, without any particular details, Britney's contribution to the show could extend to her being involved in some kind of skit, or a joking intro to another performance.

Considering her weak attempt of a performance at the VMAs last year, Britney surely is showing a lot of courage trying to regain her reputation.

"I’m excited to open the entire show, to say hi to my fans and to be nominated," the 26-year-old singer said. "MTV has long played an important role in my career," she added. "How can I not be there to kick off their 25th VMAs?"

Maybe Britney will co-host the whole event along with British comic Russell Brand. After all, they did appear in promos together, and rumors were at one point that a hairdresser was preparing looks for Britney's appearance. Since Britney proved she's a rather talented actress, I'm sure she'll pull if off. One thing we know for sure: "She's not serving canapés or doing a bizarre haircut on herself!" Brand told Ryan Seacrest on his KIIS-FM radio show Thursday.

"She's not performing, but she's certainly doing [the show] in a professional capacity," the 33-year-old comedian added.
Also, the singer's video for her song "Piece of Me" was nominated for three awards, including best female video, best pop video and video of the year.

On top of Britney's much anticipated appearance, rapper Kanye West is set to return on the stage at the VMAs despite his angry vow last year when he promised never to return to the show after missing out on five awards. In 2007, West's performance was relegated to a small stage in the Las Vegas venue, when reportedly afterwards he became irate in an infamous rant caught on tape.   

Kanye, who is rumored to be releasing a new album by December, is expected to at least drop some hints or even confirm the reports during his VMAs closing performance. A source in Kanye's management camp told XXL mag late yesterday that "official word" on the new album would be coming Sunday night during his "explosive finale" closing out the show.

Christina Aguilera is also on the list of performers, alongside T.I., and Kid Rock, who was shown rehearing his hit "All Summer Long." Aguilera will take the stage for the first time since giving birth in January. Fans should also expect performances by The Jonas Brothers, Pink, Paramore, and Katie Perry.