Hugh Jackman to host Oscars

Posted Friday, December 12, 2008 at 4:38 PM Central

by John Couture

ABC is stealing Nicky Fontana from CBS for one night only. Hugh Jackman, star and producer of last season's failed CBS musical TV show "Viva Laughlin" has been tapped to sing and dance his way into the homes of millions as host of the 81st Academy Awards.

This will be the first time hosting the Oscars for Hugh Jackman.

Jackman, who is People magazine's reigning "Sexiest Man Alive," will add sexiest Oscars host to his resume, but it's not the first time he's hosted a high profile awards show. Hugh won an Emmy in 2005 for his hosting gig at the Tony Awards in 2004.

Laurence Mark, the Oscars telecast producer, explained his choice of Jackman thusly. "We want the ceremony to be fun. He can hold the screen and he can hold a stage. It doesn't hurt that he looks amazing in a tuxedo."

ABC will broadcast the Academy Awards live on February 22.