Comedian Chris Rock has been confirmed as host of the 88th Academy Awards, producers David Hill and Reginald Hudlin announced on Wednesday. He previously hosted the Oscars in 2005.
“Chris Rock is truly the MVP of the entertainment industry,” said Hill and Hudlin. “Comedian, actor, writer, producer, director, documentarian–he’s done it all. He’s going to be a phenomenal Oscar host!”
The veteran comedian takes over for as MC after Neil Patrick Harris hosted last year’s telecast, which drew the show’s lowest ratings in six years.
Fresh Look
Hill and Hudlin said they were eager to give the ABC telecast a fresh look. “The challenge is to make it entertaining,” Hill said, “so it doesn’t seem like a lesson, so the audience cares for people when they get onstage.”
Hill, a 25-year vet from Fox Sports, also helped launch the hit “American Idol.” Hudlin and Rock worked together on the recently defunct TV series “Everybody Hates Chris.”
“We share David and Reggie’s excitement in welcoming Chris, whose comedic voice has really defined a generation,” said Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs. “He is certain to bring his amazing array of talents to this year’s show.”
Rock added: “I’m so glad to be hosting the Oscars. It’s great to be back.”
The 2016 Oscars will be held February 28, 2016.
