It has been confirmed that next month's Academy Awards will not have a host - the second year in a row with no main presenter.
Speaking to reporters, the President of ABC Television Entertainment in the US, Karey Burke, said: "Let me confirm it now. Together with the Academy [of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences], we have decided there will be no traditional host this year."
Last year's Oscars - which were to have been hosted by actor and comedian Kevin Hart until he withdrew from the role amid a controversy over offensive tweets in the past - was the first time in 30 years that the ceremony had no host. The shortened show, which featured stars introducing selected segments and awards, halted a four-year slide in viewership.
This year's Academy Award nominations will be announced next Monday, January 13. The Oscars take place on Sunday, February 9.
