Australian actor Hugh Jackman, voted Sexiest Man Alive by People magazine has been chosen by the producers of the Academy Awards to host the 81st Oscar awards scheduled for 22nd February 2009.
 
In an attempt to attract shrinking at home audiences, and since viewers of the ceremony are overwhelmingly female, the producers whose notice it has not escaped that Jackman, 40, looks terrific in a tuxedo, are hoping he will up the demographs,
 
Jackman, who has experience, having won an Emmy in 2005 for hosting the Tonys, having presided over that ceremony three times, should have no trouble with small chit chat and solemn introductions, including just the right amount of self-deprecation.
 
However, it remains to be seen whether he is up to a three-hour live show that requires physical stamina and the ability to hold the attention of several hundred million viewers worldwide.  Preparing for the job won’t be easy, what with a possible Screen Actors Guild strike, if members authorize a strike round Oscar time.
 
With Oscar ratings at a record low, attempts are being made to energize the telecast by making the ceremony more like a party celebrating movies, than just inviting the elite.  The new producers of the televised show feel Hugh Jackman, who is not only a consummate entertainer, but also an internationally renowned movie star, has what it takes i.e. style, elegance and a sense of occasion to make an ideal Oscar awards night host.
 
Selecting Jackman, is experimenting with a new style as in the past the hosting styles have ranged from political satirist Jon Stewart, to an edgy Chris Rock and of course, the very popular Ellen DeGeneres.  And since, the producers want a party and a night of celebration,  Jackman, who can sing and dance, is said to be ‘genuinely thrilled’ with the offer.