Shankman, Mechanic named Oscar producers

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif., Oct. 20 (UPI) -- Bill Mechanic and Adam Shankman have been tapped to produce the 82nd Academy Awards telecast in Los Angeles, organizers said Tuesday.

Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President Tom Sherak made the announcement. This will be the first major Oscar show involvement for both men.

"I couldn't be happier to have this talented team on board," Sherak said in a statement. "I've known Bill for many years, so it's like putting Oscar in the care of a dear friend. Bill has a tremendous love and respect of film and will draw from his vast experience as a producer, a studio executive and a film historian to help make this year's Oscar telecast a memorable one. And Adam's experience in producing, directing and especially choreography will be a huge asset to the production."

"I'm thrilled to be producing the Oscars with Adam," Mechanic said. "I think Adam has the perfect background and spirit to make the show both unique and fun to watch. Together we will build upon the best traditions from the great shows of the past while helping pave the way to the future."

"The last time I was on the show was as a dancer, and to come back as a producer is such an unbelievable honor," said Shankman.

Mechanic is chairman and chief executive officer of Pandemonium Films and former chairman and chief executive officer of Fox Filmed Entertainment. Shankman's directorial credits include "Bedtime Stories," "Hairspray," and "The Wedding Planner."

The 82nd Academy Awards are to be presented March 7 at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center, and televised live by ABC.