He was named the “Sexiest Man Alive” this year, he has appeared in numerous films and now he will host the Oscars. But can Hugh Jackman give the struggling award show the boost it needs? Last year the show saw some of its lowest ratings ever.
The Academy is hoping the A-list actor will give them the change they need to boost the rating back.
It marks the first time in years that they have not selected a comedian to try and save the show. Jon Stewart hosted in 2008 and 2006, and Ellen DeGeneres, the 2007 host, were the latest in a line of funny emcees since 1990. Billy Crystal did it eight times, Whoopi Goldberg took on four, Steve Martin did it twice and David Letterman and Chris Rock each had a shot.
But it is hard for me to believe that one mane can change the show. He might attract some people that have the hots for him, but it may also turn away people that have tuned in before for the comedians. Either way, the show need a lot of restructuring, a host will not change much. They most likely will try and turn Jackman into the comedian that he is not.
Jackman did host the 58th annual Tony Awards in 2004, earning an Emmy. But that really only displayed how he can sing and dance. The Academy Awards is a much bigger show in the publics eye.
This year the show will have new producers, a new director and new music director. The are promising a new set design, look and feel. Hopefully the change will finally be for the good after years of changes that have just distracted from the actual purpose of the show, handing out Oscars.
This year’s Oscars is on Feb. 22.
Posted by Pete 
