You’ve hosted your own talk shows and stand-up specials

I perform stand-up live all the time, but those are people who are paying specifically to see me, and this is an audience of peers, and actors, actresses and directors. It’ll be a different vibe, for sure, but I try to take everything that I say yes to pretty seriously these days, and I want to be respectful of all the people who’ve worked so hard to be in this business and to receive nominations and make it a really fun, high-energy night.

Awards shows have been losing viewers

I feel slight pressure, but I like a lot of pressure. I do my best work when I’m under pressure. You want to challenge yourself. When you’re nervous for something, that means you care. My therapist taught me that, so I now look at nerves in a completely different light. You use that energy to fuel your performance and to also spread good vibes to everybody there. … My intention is just to have a great time and to make everybody feel comfortable and welcome — like they belong there.

Preparing for live hosting gig?

I don’t know. Is Will Smith coming? I don’t think anyone’s going to come up and slap me in the face. I think that trend is over. It was a one-hit wonder. I think everyone’s learned to control themselves at awards shows. Last time somebody was interrupted at an awards show was Kanye West and Taylor Swift, and that didn’t go over very well, either. So hopefully everybody knows to stay in their seats unless they’re presenting or win an award.

I’m not going to make fun of anyone’s children or make fun of people for having children. I think that’s off-limits. It’s not going to be taking the piss out of people and embarrassing them. That’s what stand-up is for, that’s what your personal Instagram is for, if you’re into that. It’s not about making anyone feel uncomfortable, especially for me, since everybody’s expecting me to make people feel uncomfortable.

Hosting the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards

To slow down and take your time — I’ve learned that over the years with everything, including stand-up and hosting shows. As you mature as a performer, you understand the actual cadence and the delivery of a joke better and to not rush to the punchline or not rush through anything.

Mapping out entire show

On the night of, there will be some improvisation depending on what happens and who wins. I have writers working together to come up with ideas, and I’m in communication with them on regular basis. … When you’re performing live, it really is your attitude that matters. When you’re confident and in good mood, it shows and it spreads, and that’s the most important ingredient.