Director/Choreographer Adam Shankman will produce the 82nd Academy Awards live telecast in March of 2010.
Shankman is best known for directing the films “Hairspray”, “The Wedding Planner” and “A Walk To Remember” and is currently lending his hand to developing new dancers as a judge on So You Think You Can Dance.
“The last time I was on the (Oscar) show was as a dancer, and to come back as a producer is such an unbelievable honor”, said Shankman. “Simply put, there is no show like the Oscars, and I am thrilled to be a part of our industry’s most treasured tradition.”
Shankman’s co-producer for the telecast will be movie executive Bill Mechanic, an independent producer whose credits include the animated movie “Coraline”. Mechanic is a former chief of FOX and Disney studios.
“I think Adam has the perfect background and spirit to make the show both unique and fun to watch,” Mechanic said. “Together, we will build upon the best traditions from the great shows of the past while helping pave the way to the future”.
A host for the show has yet to be named. Hugh Jackson hosted last years awards show to great reviews and impressive ratings.
The 2009 Academy Awards ceremony will be held on Sunday, March 7 on ABC.
