The emphasis of the 12th annual MTV Europe Music Awards is on spectacular live performance.

[• Ellen DeGeneres , who was praised for her graceful performance as host of the Emmy Awards that followed the Sept. 11 attacks, will be back this year (8 p.m. Sept. 18, Channels 12, 7).] You know me, ... Any excuse to put on a dress.

You don't mock the importance of the event. This isn't the MTV Music Video Awards. We expect the Oscar host to be like a beloved aunt or uncle on stage playing the ringmaster to a family reunion.

[So when you're watching the Video Music Awards on August 28, don't be surprised if a few of the winners give a shout-out to the blue-eyed, weather-worn actor buried deep somewhere in the audience. And don't be surprised either if a knowing smile forms in the corners of your parents' mouths as they catch a glimpse of the screen.] It's always nice to have your name mentioned at awards ceremonies, ... I would love that, [but] I don't expect that. I was just a hired hand who had a good time.

We very much plan to improve performance as the year goes on.

THE 2005 WORLD MUSIC AWARDS