Los Angeles - Aussie star Hugh Jackman, who was recently chosen as People magazine's sexiest man alive, will host the 81st annual Oscars, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences confirmed Friday.

The move represents a departure from the comedians who usually host the biggest night in the film world. But Jackman is no newcomer to the award ceremony gig. He won an Emmy in 2005 for hosting the 59th annual Tony Awards in 2004.

The change might be just what the Oscar night needs when it hits screens on February 22 as it attempts to buck an ongoing trend of declining viewership. The 2008 Oscars were hosted by comedian and Daily Show host Jon Stewart. (dpa)