Ricky Gervais, the king of make-you-squirm comedy, has been selected to be the first Golden Globes host since 1995, PEOPLE has confirmed. The genius behind 'Extras' and the original 'The Office' no doubt made an impression during last year's ceremony when he joked about Holocaust movies, and came away with big laughs.The 48-year-old actor has avoided awards-hosting in the past, "but there are just some things you don't turn down," he said on Monday.
"Not only is this the biggest Hollywood celebration of the industry, which includes both film and TV, but also an environment where I feel I can get free reign as a host," he said.
Philip Berk, President of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, said he's "delighted" to have secured Gervais for the show, which hasn't had a regular host since the Clinton administration. Instead, a presenter has been opening the show.
NBC execs are equally thrilled.
"Ricky is certainly one of the funniest people on the planet and has provided some of the most hilarious and memorable awards show moments in recent memory," Executive Vice President, Alternative Programming, NBC and Universal Media Studios, said Paul Telegdy, said. "His unique comedic style will enhance the only awards show that brings together television and film stars to celebrate entertainment's biggest night of the year."
During last year's telecast, Gervais joked about advice he gave to Kate Winslet (best supporting actress winner) on how to win an award.
"Well done, Winslet. I told ya, do a Holocaust movie, the awards come," he said. "Trouble is with Holocaust films, there's never a gag reel on the DVDs."
