The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that it has tapped new So You Think You Can Dance judge Adam Shankman to co-produce the 82nd Annual Academy Awards telecast.
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Shankman will share Oscars production duties with Pandemonium Films CEO Bill Mechanic.
"The last time I was on the [Academy Awards] show was as a dancer, and to come back as a producer is such an unbelievable honor," said Shankman.
"I look forward to collaborating with Bill to celebrate the world's collective love of movies and provide a fun escape from the difficult times we're living in. Simply put, there is no show like the Oscars, and I am thrilled to be a part of our industry's most treasured tradition."
The 82nd Academy Awards will be presented on March 7, and the gig represents the first time either Shankman or Mechanic have produced the ceremony's telecast.
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"I couldn't be happier to have this talented team on board," said Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences President Tom Sherak.
"I've known Bill for many years, so it's like putting Oscar in the care of a dear friend. Bill has a tremendous love and respect of film and will draw from his vast experience as a producer, a studio executive and a film historian to help make this year's Oscar telecast a memorable one. And Adam's experience in producing, directing and especially choreography will be a huge asset to the production."
Shankman -- a choreographer and film director -- was tapped by Fox to serve as a regular member of So You Think You Can Dance's sixth-season judging panel in September.
About The Author: Christopher Rocchio