Jon Stewart has been set to host the 78th Academy Awards telecast, producer Gil Cates announced.

This will be Jon Stewart's first stint as Oscar host.

"My wife and I watch him every night," Cates said. "Jon is the epitome of a perfect host — smart, engaging, irreverent and funny."

Academy President Sid Ganis echoed Cates' enthusiasm. "I'm very excited," he said. "Jon Stewart is a superb choice — witty, current, intelligent and charming. What a terrific addition to our roster of great hosts!"

"As a performer, I’m truly honored to be hosting the show," said Jon Stewart. "Although, as an avid watcher of the Oscars, I can’t help but be a little disappointed with the choice. It appears to be another sad attempt to smoke out Billy Crystal."

Prior to taking over "The Daily Show" in 1999, Stewart's television credits included a one-hour HBO comedy special, "Jon Stewart: Unleavened," and a recurring role as himself on HBO’s series-within-a-series, "The Larry Sanders Show." He also hosted "The Jon Stewart Show" on MTV, which went on to be nationally syndicated. Jon Stewart has appeared in several motion pictures, including "Death to Smoochy," "Big Daddy," "The Faculty" and "Playing by Heart."

The 78th Annual Academy Awards honoring 2005 achievements in motion pictures will be held on Sunday, March 5, 2006. 

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