Who Will Host the Oscars?

Here at TMZ we've been wondering who can live up to the hype and hyperbole of Hollywood's holiest showdown. Who will lead us this year on Oscar night, and shine Hollywood's biggest and brightest spotlight on the stars?

Steve Martin seems like an obvious choice this year; he has two big movies between now and then, 'Cheaper by the Dozen 2' and 'The Pink Panther,' and is in Oscar consideration for another, 'Shopgirl.' Martin hosted in 2003 and 2001 to strong acclaim.

Whoopi Goldberg has already been there and done that: in 2002, 1999, 1996, and 1994.

David Letterman hosted in 1995, but has that pesky restraining order hanging over his head which could knock him out of the running.

Ryan Seacrest could be a new option, but he's committed to E! already.

But what if the Academy goes daring? Maybe Howard Stern? We'd get plenty of strippers and lesbians and possibly a Bobba Bouey crack or two; maybe even a special appearance by Fartman. Alright, maybe that's a bit too much.

Maybe the Academy wants to play it safe and go with 'The Tonight Show' host Jay Leno. The late king of late night, Mr. Johnny Carson, hosted four times; 1982, 1981, 1980, and 1979.

Chevy Chase hosted in 1988, but he's been out of the limelight lately.

So what about Jerry Lewis? He's still going strong with his telethon, and he hosted in 1959, 1957, and 1956 -- maybe your grandma would even watch.

But truly, there is only one person who could host this year and bring in the kind class and huge ratings the Oscars need... that's right... America's queen... Oprah!!!

Everyone in the audience would be winning free cars and gifts. She could do the book club, and well... it would be next year's Best Screenplay.

If people want "Oprah for President," why not "Oprah for Academy Awards Host"?