US comedian Jon Stewart will return to host the next Oscars - after a performance two years ago which saw his presenting style labelled “smug humourlessness”.

However the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences said he would be an ideal host, with his political satire a natural setting ahead of the US presidential election in late 2008.

Producer Gil Cates said: “He is smart, quick, funny, and loves movies.

“What else could one ask for?”

The presenter of the Daily Show hosted the Oscars in 2006, but was replaced by Ellen DeGeneres this year. Previous hosts have included Bob Hope, Billy Crystal and Whoopi Goldberg.

Stewart said: “I’m thrilled to be asked to host the Academy Awards for the second time because, as they say, the third time’s a charm.”

The Oscars will be held in Hollywood on February 28.