Comedienne and chat show host Ellen DeGeneres has be chosen to host next year�s Academy Awards.

Ellen will be watched by millions all over the world as she hosts the ultimate in award ceremonies on February 25 2007.

The chat show host is an old hand at hosting high profile awards ceremonies; she has hosted the Emmy�s twice and been awarded 15 for her shows.

Telecast producer for the 79th Academy Awards Laura Ziskin said to Handbag.com: �There is no more challenging hosting job in show business.

�It requires someone who can keep the show alive and fresh and moving, as well as someone who is a flat-out great entertainer. Ellen completely fits the bill.�

Ellen admitted she was thrilled and said in a statement: �There's two things I've always wanted to do in my life. One is to host the Oscars. The second is to get a call from Laura Ziskin.�

She should do a great job�