Oscar Host 2016: Chris Rock Returning To Host 11 Years After 2005 Showing, 'Look Who's Back'
Chris Rock is set to make his big return to the Oscars in 2016.
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Rock will host the 88th Academy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, according to a new announcement by Oscar producers David Hill and Reginald Hudlin.
"Chris Rock is truly the MVP of the entertainment industry," Hill and Hudlin said in a statement. "Comedian, actor, writer, producer, director, documentarian - he's done it all. He's going to be a phenomenal Oscar host!"
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Oscar president Cheryl Boone Isaacs said: "We share David and Reggie's excitement in welcoming Chris, whose comedic voice has really defined a generation. He is certain to bring his amazing array of talents to this year's show."
As for Rock himself, he stated, "I'm so glad to be hosting the Oscars. It's great to be back."
Rock hosted the 77th Academy Awards in 2005, the year Million Dollar Baby took home the award for Best Picture.
Rock also tweeted a simple message after the announcement:
Look who's back. #Oscars. pic.twitter.com/7TkkrDpSJM
— Chris Rock (@chrisrock) October 21, 2015
In addition to Rock's comedic talents and well received 2005 hosting job, the decision to hire him to host again comes at an important time for the Academy's reputation. The Oscars dealt with some backlash for the 2015 ceremony when there were zero minority actors nominated. The hashtag #OscarsSoWhite was trending on Twitter, overshadowing the nominations announcement back in January.
The 88th Academy Awards will air live on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016 starting at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT.
