Nick Cannon tapped to be 'Talent' host

UNIVERSAL CITY , Calif., Feb. 9 (UPI) -- Actor, producer and comedian Nick Cannon has signed on to be the new host of "America's Got Talent," NBC said.

Cannon will join the talent-competition series when it returns next summer for its fourth season, it was announced Monday by Paul Telegdy, executive vice president of alternative programming for NBC and Universal Media Studios.

Regis Philbin was the variety show's host for the first season and Jerry Springer presided over the next two editions of the series.

"Nick exemplifies the spirit of 'America's Got Talent' with his talent, originality and an infectious love of performing and creating," Telegdy said in a statement. "His popularity and appeal are sure to take the series to a new level of success."

"This is just the first of multiple projects we are looking to do with Nick at NBC," added Ben Silverman, co-chairman of NBC and Universal Media Studios. "He's a true triple threat -- a multitalented producer, actor and musician. We are excited to welcome him to the NBC family."

"I'm thrilled to be with working with NBC," Cannon said. "Ben Silverman and Paul Teledgy understand my vision as not only an entertainer, but as a creative show producer. I look forward to working with the network and their executive team on 'America's Got Talent' and other shows to come."

The show will retain its current panel of celebrity judges -- Sharon Osbourne, Piers Morgan and David Hasselhoff, NBC said.