NEW YORK — Emmy and SAG Award-winning star Sean Hayes will host the 2010 Tony Awards, organizers announced Monday.
"I am absolutely thrilled to be hosting the Tony Awards. As the new guy on Broadway, it’s an honor to be included in the established alumni," said Hayes, who is nominated this year for his performance in Promises, Promises.
"We couldn’t be more excited about Sean carrying on the tradition of excellent hosts for the Tony Awards," added Executive Producer Glenn Weiss. "Sean’s humor, charm and natural ability on the stage will make an already great show even better."
Earlier this year, Hayes opened up about his sexuality for the first time. In a wide-ranging interview, the 39-year-old star reacted to the criticism directed at him over the years for never confirming or denying whether he’s gay.
"Why would you go down that path with somebody who’s done so much to contribute to the gay community?" he asked The Advocate in response to the gay magazine’s past attempt to reveal his sexuality. "That was my beef about it. What more do you want me to do? Do you want me to stand on a float? And then what? It’s never enough."
"Really? You’re gonna shoot the gay guy down? I never have had a problem saying who I am," added Hayes, who played flamboyant Jack McFarland on NBC’s Will & Grace for eight years. "I am who I am. I was never in, as they say. Never."
Best musical nominee Fela! and best musical revival nominee La Cage aux Folles each received 11 nominations to lead the field of contenders for the 64th annual Tony Awards, which will take place on June 13. The ceremony will air live from Radio City Music Hall on CBS.
