Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, February 8, 1994 TAG: 9402100227
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Los Angeles Times
DATELINE: HOLLYWOOD LENGTH: Short
Once Crystal declined to front this year's event for a fifth straight year, one of the biggest guessing games in Hollywood was who producer Gil Cates would call upon. Cates was mum and would not confirm reports that such entertainers as Bette Midler, Johnny Carson, Tom Hanks and Steve Martin had also declined.
One veteran Oscar insider connected with a major studio said that the five nominees for best picture (which will be announced Wednesday morning) have been easier to predict than guessing who Cates would ultimately persuade to do the March 21 show.
Through her publicist, Goldberg said Sunday she is ``thrilled about my date with Oscar. To go from watching to winning to hosting in one lifetime is major.'' The 44-year-old performer, currently shooting ``Boys on the Side'' in Pittsburgh, won the best supporting actress Oscar for her role in the 1990 romantic comedy ``Ghost.''
The selection of Goldberg is a departure for the Oscar show, where white males have predominated as masters of ceremonies. Not only will Goldberg be the first woman solo host, she also will be the show's first solo black American host.
``I think it's a terrific choice, and she'll do a wonderful job,'' Crystal said.
by CNB