Billy Crystal to Host 76th Academy Awards
Beverly Hills, CA - Billy Crystal will return to host the 76th Academy Awards on February 29, 2004, telecast producer Joe Roth
announced today.
"I can't tell you how happy I am that Billy will be hosting this show," said Roth. "He was my first and only choice."
This will be the eighth year that Crystal has served as host of the presentation. He hosted four consecutive shows beginning in
1990, then returned following a three-year hiatus to host the 69th, 70th and 72nd telecasts.
"Billy's personality and quick wit are uniquely suited to this 900 pound gorilla of live shows," Roth said. "He's proved he can
tame it with style and flair. To me, this was the most important element of the show - the rest of the way suddenly feels very
comfortable."
Said Crystal: "When Joe called, I didn't hesitate. He has such a passion for the show I felt I could have a great time doing it
again. It was either this or run for governor."
Crystal has carved a niche as the viewing audiences' favorite Oscar show host of recent years, and his performances have been
consistent critical successes. He's won four Emmys for his writing and hosting of the Oscar show, and has received six other Emmy
nominations for his contributions. Crystal's hosting of the Oscars has earned him more Emmy nominations than any other host in
history.
The 76th Academy Awards, for outstanding film achievements of 2003, will be presented on Sunday, February 29, 2004, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland and televised live by the ABC Television Network beginning at 5:30 p.m. PST. A half-hour arrival segment will precede the presentation ceremony at 5 p.m.
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