Ricky Gervais To Host Golden Globes

Ricky Gervais in a scene from "The Invention of Lying."

Ricky Gervais has been announced as the host of the 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards, to take place Sunday, January 17, 2010. This marks the first time the telecast has had a host since 1995.

"Not only is this the biggest Hollywood celebration of the industry which includes both film and TV, but also an environment where I feel I can get free reign as a host. I have resisted many other offers like this, but there are just some things you don't turn down," said Gervais in a statement.

Gervais is probably best known for his role as David Brent on the BBC version of "The Office." Gervais produced, wrote (with Stephen Merchant), directed and acted on the mock documentary series from 2001-2003. Recently he wrote, directed and stared in the feature film "The Invention of Lying."

"We are delighted to have Ricky Gervais as the host on our show," said Philip Berk, President of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, in a statement. "He'll bring his unique brand of humor and charm to what will continue to be a fast paced award show."

Nominations for "The 67th Annual Golden Globe Awards" will be announced at 8 a.m. EST on Tuesday, December 15, 2009.