Neil Patrick Harris ‘Happy’ To Be In Charge Of Emmys

Neil Patrick Harris is beyond excited to be hosting the Emmys again this Sunday.

The How I Met Your Mother star previously hosted the awards show in 2009, delivering a huge ratings boost for the telecast. The 40-year-old has won four Emmys of his own including two for his turns at the 66th and 67th annual Tony Awards — which he also hosted. Harris told USA Today that he didn’t need to be persuaded to take the Emmy gig a second time.

“I love TV and the motley crew of people that are part of it,” he said. “I think that makes for a better viewing experience of television than ever, and I’m happy to be the guy in charge of honoring that.”

Harris also said that his childhood hobbies helped prepare him for his seemingly perpetual role as awards show host.

“I dabbled in magic and juggling and I sing,” he said. “Those are all, as it turns out, good attributes for being a host.”

Neil Patrick Harris’ return as Emmy host was first announced in May. At the time, CBS Entertainment president Nina Tassler said, “Neil is the quintessential host – engaging, entertaining and a true showman – with a passion for celebrating the medium we all love.”

TV Academy chairman and CEO Bruce Rosenblum also praised Harris’ hosting skills.

“Four years ago, Neil was an amazing Emmy host and we are excited to have him back,” he said.

American Horror Story: Asylum leads the Emmy nominations with 17 nods. The series’ first season was also nominated for 17 Emmys, but only took home two. Mad Men tied AHS in nominations last year, but this year, Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk’s horror drama stands alone.

Game of Thrones comes in second with 16 nominations, and Saturday Night Live and Behind the Candelabra come in third with 15 nods each.

The 65th Annual Primetime Emmy Awards airs Sunday, September 22 on CBS.

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