Jimmy Kimmel returns to host Emmys in September

LOS ANGELES: Jimmy Kimmel is returning to host the 72nd Emmy Awards in September, one of the biggest events on the showbiz calendar. 

The late-night talk show returns for the third time and comes after last year’s Emmy Awards did not have a host. It is not clear whether this year’s award show will be live in-person or virtual due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“I don’t know where we will do this or how we will do this or even why we are doing this, but we are doing it and I am hosting it,” said Kimmel.

Kimmel hosted both the 2012 and 2016 Emmy Awards. The comedian also hosts and executive produces ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire’. He also hosted the Oscars two years in a row from 2017-18.

The Television Academy will announce nominations for the 72nd Emmy Awards on July 28.

“We know Jimmy Kimmel will deliver a uniquely entertaining, funny and moving Primetime Emmys show,” said Karey Burke, president, ABC Entertainment.

“He’s a true master of ceremonies who reveres this industry and its people; and just as Jimmy has done with his own show over the past few months, he will tackle this momentous event with heart and humour, and bring some much-needed joy and optimism to our television colleagues and viewers at home.”

The Emmy Awards are usually held live in Los Angeles in front of an audience top Hollywood stars preceded by a red carpet. It is unclear whether the ceremony would go ahead because of restrictions on large gatherings and social distancing requirements.

The organisers gave no details for how the show would be produced in an era when the coronavirus pandemic has forced the cancellation of multiple live events.