(Studio Briefing) The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has called on Jon Stewart, host of Comedy Central's The Daily Show, to host the 78th annual Academy Awards on March 5. "Jon is the epitome of a perfect host - smart, engaging, irreverent and funny," producer Gil Cates told the Associated Press. Commented Stewart: "As a performer, I'm truly honored to be hosting the show. ... Although, as an avid watcher of the Oscars, I can't help but be a little disappointed with the choice. It appears to be another sad attempt to smoke out Billy Crystal." The awards show is scheduled to air on ABC on March 5.

I'm a bit disappointed that Billy won't be hosting the Oscars again, as he always does such a terrific job. I like Jon Stewart, and I hope he will do a stellar job hosting...

Chh, I think it'll be awesome. Jon Stewart is effing hilarious and the Daily Show is like my favoriteeee.

Jon Stewart appears at many of these award shows (particularly the Emmys) and in the UK few people seem to get his type of humour- myself included. I think this is mainly because alot of his humour is political and satirical- and not many people outside the US know alot about US politics (except larger events). I think him hositng the Oscars will alienate foreign audiences

As long as he doesn't piss off Jude Law or Sean Penn, he'll be fine.