ET blows the lid off the biggest secret in Hollywood -- Britney Spears will open the VMA Awards Sunday night in Hollywood.

There has been much speculation about what Britney's role would be on the show and now we know. ET can also confirm Britney will not be performing.

The pop princess herself told us Wednesday afternoon, "How can I not be there to kick off their 25th VMAs? I'm excited to open the entire show, to say 'Hi' to my fans and to be nominated," also noting, "MTV has long played an important role in my career."

The President of MTV Networks Music/LOGO/Films Group, Van Toffler, said he was excited to see what Britney would do at the VMAs: "Britney has done everything from perform with a snake, lock lips with Madonna and prove that what happens in Vegas doesn't always stay in Vegas. I can't wait to see what she does to kick off this year's show."

Spears is poised to take home top honors at this year's VMAs with nominations in three categories, including Video of the Year for "Piece of Me." Spears is pictured above in a promo for the VMAs with actor Russell Brand.