Oscars Host Stewart Prepares for Big Stage

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By SANDY COHEN
AP Entertainment Writer

NEW YORK - Jon Stewart just won the Heisman - the comedians' version. As host of the Academy Awards, Stewart joins an elite group that includes Steve Martin, Billy Crystal, Bob Hope and Johnny Carson.

"It doesn't mean you're going to have a good pro career, or even do well in the bowl game," Stewart says, sitting in his Manhattan office behind a desk cluttered with papers. "But to get to that point means something. Now you're in the club."

Membership requires entertaining a television audience of more than 40 million, plus getting laughs from some of the most powerful people in Hollywood.

Stewart's up for the challenge. It's why he took the gig. The huge audience. The intense glare.

"For a comedian," he says, "it feels like the ultimate stage."

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[Jamastiene]

1. I love Jon Stewart, but I still can't believe they are

goint to turn him loose with something like the Academy Awards. I know it'll be interesting with him in charge of the emceeing. Normally I don't watch, but I may just tune in this time. :evilgrin:

[Left Is Write]

2. I don't usually watch either (or any other awards shows), but

I think I'm curious enough about Jon Stewart hosting to go ahead and watch!

[Jamastiene]

3. I just know he is going to rip Cheney and Bush a couple of

new ones. It'll be worth it. Hope he lobs a couple about the whole Tom/Katie story/anomaly.