Chris Rock in Talks to Host 2016 Oscars

Photo of Chris Rock by Danny Moloshok/Reuters


Update (Oct. 21, 2015): The Academy has confirmed Chris Rock will in fact host the 2016 Academy Awards.

As Oscar season kicks into full gear, it appears the Academy has found next year's host in Chris Rock, who last hosted the 2005 ceremony.

Comedy website RobotButt first reported and Variety has since confirmed that Rock has been in discussions to host the 88th Academy Awards, with an official announcement expected as soon as this week.

News of Rock's hosting gig comes as the Academy is seeking to rebound from this year's telecast, helmed by Neil Patrick Harris, which saw the show's lowest ratings in six years.

Next year's Oscars are set for Feb. 28 at Hollywood's Dolby Theatre.