Chris Rock Turned Down Oscar Hosting Gig, And So Did a Few Others Before NPH Got Asked

Neil Patrick Harris is set to host the 2015 Oscar ceremony next February 22nd. But that’s only because 3 other people ahead of him in line said “No”.  Ellen, Chris Rock, and Julia Louis-Dreyfus.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, the Academy Awards producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron had other choices they preferred to NPH. First on the list, they called Ellen DeGeneres, Queen of the Oscar Selfie. She brought in a ratings increase and they were desperate to have her back. She declined hosting the awards for a third time. She obviously had some big checks to give away on her TV show.

Next on the list was Chris Rock, who hosted the 77th annual Academy Awards in 2005. He made a joke about Jude Law during the broadcast that somehow hurt Sean Penn’s feelings. The producers were unable to work things out with Chris to bring him back for 2015.

“Now do we call Neil Patrick Harris?” Not yet. Third on the list was Julia Louis-Dreyfus who was a hit at the Emmy Awards this year with her Bryan Cranston make out. She flat out said “No”.

Finally Doogie’s phone rang and the 4 time Tony Awards and 2 time Emmy Awards host accepted. Thank goodness. Next on the list was one of the Real Housewives.

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