Tony Awards announce this year's show-stopping host

New York, New York – The Tony Awards have announced the host of its 75th annual show, and it's a star who's quickly rising to the top of the game.

After Ariana DeBose stunned at the Met Gala on Monday (r.), she announced she will next host the 2022 Tony Awards.
After Ariana DeBose stunned at the Met Gala on Monday (r.), she announced she will next host the 2022 Tony Awards.  © Collage: IMAGO/UPI Photo & REUTERS

Ariana DeBose is having the year of her career.

The Broadway vet won an Oscar, BAFTA, Critics Choice, Golden Globe, and SAG Award for her role as Anita in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story earlier this year. Now, she's been tapped to host Broadway's biggest night.

The 31-year-old will helm the upcoming show at Radio City Music Hall on June 12, which will be televised live across the country on CBS and streamed on Paramount+ at 8 PM EST.

Man dies after being pushed onto New York City subway tracks
New York City Man dies after being pushed onto New York City subway tracks

"I’m coming home!" DeBose said of her hosting duties. "I’m so honored to celebrate 75 years of excellence in theater, but more importantly, every member of this community who poured themselves into making sure the lights of Broadway have the opportunity to shine brightly once again!"

DeBose was an original cast member of Hamilton, and was nominated for a Tony in 2018 as Disco Donna in Summer: The Donna Summer Musical. She has also appeared in five other Broadway productions and in the Netflix film adaptation of the musical The Prom.

"The 75th Tony Awards celebration is a big moment for all of us in the theater community, and in Ariana we have found the perfect host to lead this celebration," said Heather Hitchens, President and CEO of the American Theatre Wing and Charlotte St. Martin, President of The Broadway League, both organizations which produce the Tonys.

"We can’t wait to see Ariana take the stage on June 12th and dazzle, inspire, and entertain us."

DeBose made history at the 2022 Academy Awards by becoming the first openly queer woman of color and the first Afro-Latina ever to win an Oscar.

"This is a dream come true," DeBose said of hosting the Tony Awards. "I’m excited to see you all on June 12th."

The Tonys will announce this year's nominations on May 9.

Cover photo: Collage: IMAGO/UPI Photo & REUTERS

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