BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Billy Crystal will return to host the 76th Academy Awards Sunday, Feb. 29, the show's producer, Joe Roth, announced Wednesday.
"I can't tell you how happy I am that Billy will be hosting this show. He was my first and only choice," Roth said.
It will be the eighth time Crystal has served as host of the presentation. He hosted four consecutive shows beginning in 1990, then returned following a three-year hiatus to host the 69th, 70th and 72nd telecasts.
Said Crystal: "When Joe called, I didn't hesitate. He has such a passion for the show I felt I could have a great time doing it again. It was either this or run for governor."
The ceremonies honoring 2003 achievements in motion pictures will be broadcast live from the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood by ABC-TV.
