The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and show producers Adam Shankman and Bill Mechanic have officially announced Hamish Hamilton as the director of the 2009 Academy Awards.

It will be Hamilton's first time directing the Oscar ceremony, but Hamilton has a background in live awards coverage, having previously directed both the MTV Video Music Awards and MTV Europe Music Awards. Hamilton is also slated to direct 2010's Superbowl XLIV halftime show in February.

The 82nd Academy Awards will be telecast live on Sunday, March 7th, 2010 on ABC from the Kodak Theater at Hollywood and Highland Center. Nominations will be announced on Tuesday, February 2, 2010, at 5:30 a.m. Pacific in the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater.