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Neil Patrick Harris to host NBC variety show

Neil Patrick Harris has signed to host a new variety show for NBC, says THR.

Based on the UK’s long-running “Saturday Night Takeaway”, the show will “feature comedy sketches, musical numbers, mini game shows, hidden-camera celebrity pranks and appearances by A-listers”, says the trade. The show has been greenlit for 10 episodes.

The show – which likely won’t air on Saturdays – will get a new title for it’s US incarnation.

“As I watched the show, I couldn’t stop smiling. Now that I’ve seen many seasons, my face hurts. It’s a game changer,” said Harris. “Nothing like this has been done before, and its unique structure fits right into my random skill set. I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and have some fun!”

“All of us here at NBC have been dying to work with Neil, as we’ve watched him brilliantly host the Tonys and Emmys,” said Paul Telegdy, president alternative and late night programming at NBC Entertainment. “This series will suit his extraordinary talents perfectly. He is a versatile and thrilling talent for us to welcome into the NBC family.”

Harris, who’ll host the Oscars in 2015, has been wanting to do a variety show for a while.

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