John Stewart Returning as Host of the Oscars!

BEVERLY HILLS (AP) — Jon Stewart will return as host of the Oscars in 2008. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences announced Wednesday that Stewart will host the 80th awards show Feb. 24 at the Kodak Theatre in Hollywood.

Oscar telecast producer Gil Cates described Stewart as smart, quick and funny. He said Stewart loves movies and is a great guy.

Stewart got mixed reviews when he hosted the 78th annual awards. Some jokes fell flat and some critics expected the political satirist to be edgier.

Stewart joked that he is thrilled to be asked for a second time, because the third time is a charm.

Stewart hosts The Daily Show With Jon Stewart on Comedy Central.

He hosted the Grammy Awards in 2001 and 2002.