Billy Crystal to Host Oscars for Ninth Time

The 84th Academy Awards to Air on February 26

Billy Crystal Returns to Host Prestigious Ceremony

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced today that Billy Crystal will host the 84th Annual Academy Awards, which will air live on ABC on Sunday, February 26, 2012. This will be Crystal's ninth time hosting the Oscars, making him the most frequent host in the show's history.

In a statement, Crystal said, "I'm thrilled to be back hosting the Oscars. It's always an honor to be a part of such a prestigious event that celebrates the very best in filmmaking." Crystal previously hosted the Oscars in 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1997, 1998, and 2000.

The 84th Academy Awards will recognize the best films of 2011. The nominations will be announced on January 24, 2012. The ceremony will be held at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood, California.