Philbin tapped as talent competition host

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LOS ANGELES, May 10 (UPI) -- "Live with Regis & Kelly's" Regis Philbin has been tapped as host of "American Idol" judge Simon Cowell's latest venture, "America's Got Talent."

The talent competition from Cowell and FreemantleMedia makes its bow July 13 on NBC, "Entertainment Tonight" reported Wednesday.

"For years I've thought about hosting a variety show on television but I could never put it together in my mind," Philbin said. "Finally, here it is and I'm thrilled to be a part of it."

Cowell called his Emmy winning emcee "the best," adding, "I am really looking forward to working with him."

"America's Got Talent" will award $1 million to the top singer, dancer, comic or novelty act in the United States.