The news that late-night host Jimmy Kimmel will host the 2017 Academy Awards comes as no surprise to industry insiders and celebrity watchers.
The hilarious host of Jimmy Kimmel Live’s name rose to the top of the field after rave reviews of his Emmy’s hosting gig, and now the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences has made it official.
“Mike and Jennifer have an excellent plan and their enthusiasm is infectious,” said Kimmel. “I am honored to have been chosen to host the 89th and final Oscars.”
“Jimmy’s ability to connect with people is what makes him a singular choice for this job,” said producers Michael De Luca and Jennifer Todd. “His frank observations, relatable persona, wry humor and love of all kinds of film make him a natural fit for the Oscars stage.”
“Jimmy has the qualities of all the great hosts,” said Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs. “He knows who he is, he knows the audience and he knows how to captain a ship with many moving parts. We’re thrilled he has agreed to host our show.”
“The Oscars are in great hands with Jimmy,” said Academy CEO Dawn Hudson. “He is razor sharp, funny, and unpredictable, and has proven himself a master of live event television, which is perfect for our audience around the world.”
The 89th Academy Awards will air on ABC on February 26, 2017.
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