Official: Neil Patrick Harris to host Emmys

CBS made the worst-kept secret in TV official today: "How I Met Your Mother" co-star Neil Patrick Harris has been tapped to host the 61st Primetime Emmy Awards on Sept. 20.

Here come the quotes ...

"After having had such a hoot hosting the Tonys, I was thrilled to get the call about the Primetime Emmys," said Harris. "I'm looking forward to the challenge of the show — adding my own voice to it, while honoring the nominees and the entire year in television.  But which voice to choose?  I'm torn between gangsta, foppish Brit, and robot.  Really proud of my robot.  We'll see what happens on the night."

"We already knew Neil as a fantastic actor and performer, but after blowing everyone away as host of this year's Tony Awards, we couldn't think of anyone better to emcee the television industry's biggest award show," said Nina Tassler, President, CBS Entertainment. "He is not only engaging as a host, but has great instincts when it comes to live television.  We feel like we're in great hands with Neil hosting and Don Mischer executive producing."

"Neil is charming, funny, quick on his feet and very likeable," said Don Mischer, executive producer. "He has all the qualities you look for in a host. We are really looking forward to working with him."