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Hugh Jackman to Host 2009 Oscars

Hugh Jackman, who was recently awarded the honor of being People Magazine's "Sexiest Man Alive," has been chosen to host the 2009 Academy Awards. The actor replaces Jon Stewart, who has emceed the event for the past two years. The 81st annual Oscars will be broadcast live in February. Last season's broadcast scored record-low ratings and producers are hoping that Jackman will help to boost viewership. The Aussie actor's recent mainstream press, such as the People nod, may give the Oscars the nudge its producers are hoping for.

This is not Jackman's first foray into hosting awards ceremonies. He previously hosted the 2005 Tony Awards. Oscar producers Bill Condon and Laurence Mark said in a joint statement that "Hugh Jackman is a consummate entertainer and an internationally renowned movie star. He also has style, elegance, and a sense of occasion. Hugh is the ideal choice to host a celebration of the year's movies and to have fun doing it." Jackman can currently be seen on screens in the big-budget epic, Australia.

—The ARTISTdirect Staff
12.15.08