Comedian Chris Rock to host Oscars again

Comedian and actor Chris Rock will return on February 28 to host the Oscars for a second time, organizers of the US awards show announced on Wednesday.

"Chris Rock is truly the MVP of the entertainment industry," said show producers David Hill and Reginald Hudlin in a statement.

"Comedian, actor, writer, producer, director, documentarian – he's done it all.  He's going to be a phenomenal Oscar host!"

The 50-year-old Rock -- a veteran of "Saturday Night Live" and star of several films -- confirmed his appearance with a tweet that said "Look who's back."

Rock last hosted the Oscars in 2005, when "Million Dollar Baby" won best picture. He got mixed reviews, with some panning his performance and others praising his biting humor.

Many at the time took offense to his jabs at several actors, including Jude Law and Colin Farrell.

Rock most recently wrote and starred in rom-com "Top Five" and directed Amy Schumer's stand-up comedy special on HBO.

Last year's Oscars was hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, who struggled through the show. It was the lowest-rated Oscars telecast in six years.