When the news broke last week that Hugh Jackman would not be reprising his stint as the Oscars‘ host, The Academy rolled up their socks in a bid to find a suitable replacement. Enter stage left a pair of comedy titans; Messrs Steve Martin and Alec Baldwin.

The producers of the annual shindig commented thus; "We think the team of Steve and Alec are the perfect pair of hosts for the Oscars…Steve will bring the experience of having hosted the show in the past and Alec will be a completely fresh personality for this event."

Martin is an old hat at this sort thing having hosted the 73rd and 75th editions of the glitzy bash to Emmy–winning effect.

"I am happy to co–host the Oscars with my enemy Alec Baldwin," said Martin. The pair were recently seen sparring with each other in an episode of "30 Rock". Martin is currently touring the UK with his Grammy Award–winning bluegrass band, the Steep Canyon Rangers.

"I don‘t play the banjo but I‘m thrilled to be hosting the Oscars – it‘s the opportunity of a lifetime," fired back Baldwin.