Chris Hardwick to host NBC's 'Red Nose Day Special'

April 6 (UPI) -- Talking Dead star Chris Hardwick is to host NBC's The Red Nose Day Special on May 25.

Red Nose Day is an annual, televised, entertainment program intended to raise money and awareness for children living in poverty.

This year's three-hour, Red Nose Day programming block will include the first celebrity edition of American Ninja Warrior with Derek Hough, Stephen Amell and Natalie Morales, as well as Running Wild with Bear Grylls for Red Nose Day featuring Julia Roberts.

Capping the evening will be the Hardwick-hosted, star-studded Red Nose Day Special, which will include the Love Actually, short, film sequel Red Nose Day Actually, starring Liam Neeson, Colin Firth and Hugh Grant.

"Red Nose Day's effort to lift children out of poverty is centered around heart and humanity, and we're excited to create a night of programming that reflects this. From Julia Roberts and Bear Grylls showing viewers the impact of their donations, to celebrities challenging themselves on American Ninja Warrior to raise funds and awareness, this will be an incredible night," Paul Telegdy, president of alternative and reality group for NBC Entertainment, said in a statement. "We are thrilled to have Chris' wit and compassion championing the evening as our host for The Red Nose Day Special."

A British version of the telethon aired in the United Kingdom last month.