Oscars announce funny girl gang as 2022 hosts

Los Angeles, California – There's going to be a new crew of funny ladies hosting the Oscars this year, and it's set to make her-story.

Regina Hall (l.), Wanda Sykes (c.), and Amy Schumer (r.) have been announced to host the upcoming 2022 Academy Awards on March 27.
Regina Hall (l.), Wanda Sykes (c.), and Amy Schumer (r.) have been announced to host the upcoming 2022 Academy Awards on March 27.  © Collage: IMAGO/NurPhoto, MediaPunch, & agefotostock

After much speculation, the Academy confirmed on Tuesday morning that a new girl gang will be at the helm of movies' biggest night.

Amy Schumer, Wanda Sykes, and Regina Hall will host the 94th annual Academy Awards on March 27, the organization announced on Good Morning America.

"We want people to get ready to have a good time. It’s been a while," said Hall, Schumer, and Sykes in a press release.

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"This year’s show is all about uniting movie lovers. It’s apropos that we’ve lined up three of the most dynamic, hilarious women with very different comedic styles," said Oscars producer Will Packer. "I know the fun Regina, Amy and Wanda will be having will translate to our audience as well. Many surprises in store! Expect the unexpected!"

"Mama I made it!" Schumer joked in an Instagram post on Tuesday. "Honored to be performing with these legends."

Schumer and Sykes are known for their stand-up comedienne prowess, while Hall is best known for her comedic roles in the Scary Movie franchise, The Best Man, and Girls Trip, among others. All three are award-nominated actors and producers.

A historic Oscar first

Actors Leslie Jordan (l.) and Tracee Ellis Ross co-hosted the virtual announcement of nominees for this year's Academy Awards on February 5.
Actors Leslie Jordan (l.) and Tracee Ellis Ross co-hosted the virtual announcement of nominees for this year's Academy Awards on February 5.  © Collage: Imago/ZUMA Wire

The Oscars have not had a host for the last three years, and was last emceed by Jimmy Kimmel in 2018. The trend began in 2019 when Kevin Hart opted to step down from hosting amid controversy over his past homophobic tweets.

Choosing the powerhouse lady trio to reinstate the gig marks the first time three women will ever host the ceremony together. There were three hosts 35 years ago at the 1987 Oscars – Chevy Chase, Goldie Hawn and Paul Hogan – and two women 45 years ago at the 1977 awards – Ellen Burstyn and Jane Fonda with Warren Beatty and Richard Pryor.

"Imagine having one of the funniest women in comedy today hosting the Oscars … Now, multiply that by three," said president of ABC Entertainment Craig Erwich of the decision. "Regina, Amy and Wanda are comedy powerhouses who will make history as the first female trio to host the biggest night in entertainment, and we’re thrilled to have them at the helm to deliver an incredible show full of unforgettable moments and laughter."

The Power of the Dog leads this year's nominees with 12 nods. The Academy Awards will air live on ABC on Sunday, March 27 at 8 PM EST from the Dolby Theatre auditorium in Los Angeles, and we can expect lots of girl power and laughs to come.

Cover photo: Collage: IMAGO/NurPhoto, MediaPunch, & agefotostock

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