Comedian Kimmel tapped to host Oscars
Print Edition
LATE night television presenter Jimmy Kimmel has ended months of speculation over who would host the Oscars in February — announcing that he has been tapped to front the glitzy ceremony.
It will be the first time for the comedian, who has hosted “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” on ABC since it launched in 2003 and garnered praise for his work as host of this year’s Emmys television awards.
“Yes, I am hosting the Oscars. This is not a prank. And if it is, my revenge on The Academy,” the 49-year-old New Yorker joked on Twitter.
His selection was later confirmed by Michael De Luca and Jennifer Todd, the multiple Oscar- and Emmy-nominated duo producing the 89th Oscars ceremony, which airs live on ABC television on February 26.
“Jimmy’s ability to connect with people is what makes him a singular choice for this job,” they said in a joint statement.
“His frank observations, relatable persona, wry humor and love of all kinds of film make him a natural fit for the Oscars stage.”
Academy president Cheryl Boone Isaacs said she was thrilled to have a host who “knows who he is, he knows the audience.”
ABC, which pays the Academy a reported US$75 million a year to broadcast the Oscars, struck a new deal in August giving executives more creative input.
“Jimmy is the perfect choice for us,” said ABC Entertainment president Channing Dungey.
“He is deeply rooted in the Hollywood community and gifted at connecting with an audience as the consummate MC.”
Kimmel’s appointment comes unusually late this time around, as the host is usually booked months in advance of the Oscars.
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