Hugh Jackman hosting the Oscars in February

Hugh Jackman will serve as host of the 81st Annual Academy Awards Feb. 22.  The Academy announced the morning coming off a record-low ratings year,that the actor and  People Magazine’s Sexiest Man Alive will take on the duties, which has typically relied on comics. Jon Stewart, Chris Rock and Ellen DeGeneres were the last three emcees, making this year’s event more of an insider’s job.

The likable 40-year-old X-Man has some key experience. As a three-time host of the Tony Awards, 2003-2005. Jackman won an Emmy in 2005 for hosting the 59th annual Tony Awards in 2004. He was also nominated as host of the Tonys in 2005.

Laurence Mark and Bill Condon who are producing next year’s telecast, said in a statement that the performer was the perfect choice because he “had style, elegance and a sense of occasion.” They also noted that he was a “consummate entertainer and an internationally renowned movie star.” ABC will broadcast the Oscar ceremony live from the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles on Feb. 22.

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