Former MTV VJ and Total Request Live host Carson Daly made a memorable return to the VMAs, bringing along his 15-year-old son, Jackson, for a red-carpet father-son moment. The duo was spotted on Wednesday, September 11, at New York’s UBS Arena, both dressed sharply in coordinated suits, with Daly, 51, proudly posing alongside his look-alike son.
While Daly sported a classic dark suit paired with a button-up shirt, Jackson opted for a more casual yet stylish ensemble, donning a blue blazer with eye-catching stripes, complemented by a black t-shirt and a silver necklace. In photos, Daly could be seen affectionately holding his son’s shoulder, showcasing their close bond.
Carson shares Jackson, along with daughters Etta, 11, London, 9, and Goldie, 4, with his wife, Siri Pinter. The family resemblance has caught attention before, particularly during a trip to Scotland in July. The father-son pair visited the Open Championship, where Jackson joined Daly at the NBC Sports anchor desk for a photo Daly later posted on Instagram. Daly captioned the moment: “Being here this week with my son for #TheOpen 150th anniversary is beyond bucket list material!”
Daly, who is also a Today show co-host, previously revealed another milestone for Jackson—learning to drive. Speaking with PEOPLE during an eclipse viewing event in New York, Daly shared that his son had begun driving their family’s pickup truck. “It’s going great,” Daly said, adding that Jackson was proving to be a “really good driver.” He noted, however, that Jackson wouldn’t be licensed until he turns 17, per New York’s driving laws.
As an MTV veteran, Daly is no stranger to the VMAs, having been a prominent host during the network’s TRL heyday. This year’s awards show boasts a star-studded lineup, including performances by Lenny Kravitz, Shawn Mendes, Halsey, and Eminem. Additionally, Katy Perry will be honored with the prestigious Video Vanguard Award.
For Daly, it was a night of nostalgia and family pride, marking another special moment with his son at one of pop culture’s most celebrated events.