Jimmy Kimmel to host the Oscars

Jimmy Kimmel is headed to the Academy Awards.

The "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" host has been tapped to host the 2017 Oscars.

"Yes, I am hosting the Oscars. This is not a prank," Kimmel wrote in a tweet. "And if it is, my revenge on @TheAcademy will be terrible & sweet."

The news comes just months after Kimmelearned largely positive reviewsfor his turn as host of the 2016 Emmy Awards, a show he also hosted in 2012.This will mark Kimmel's first time helming the Oscars. Though, he's anything but a surprise choice, having hosted the American Music Awards multiple times for his home network.Chris Rock hosted the 2016 Academy Awards and had the tricky task of leading a ceremony plagued by criticism for its lack of diversity. Rock delivered ablistering commentaryon the #OscarsSoWhite controversy head-on during his monologue.Based on early indications, this year's nominees could end up being animprovement.Nominees will be announced January 24, 2017.The Academy Awards air February 26, 2017 on ABC.

(CNN)