Cedric 'the Entertainer' Named 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire' Host

Fills seat vacated by Meredith Vieira in fall for 12th season

By Lindsay Rubino -- Broadcasting & Cable, 3/20/2013 9:52:06 AM

Comedian and actor Cedric "the Entertainer" will fill the seat vacated by Meredith Vieira as host of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, Disney/ABC Domestic Television announced on Wednesday.

Cedric will join the show for its 12^th season in national syndication this fall.

"We are thrilled to announce that Cedric 'The Entertainer' will be at the helm as our new host of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," said Janice Marinelli, president, Disney/ABC Domestic Television. "With his deep roots as a successful stand-up comedian and actor, Cedric will bring his fresh approach and unpredictable fun to the show."

Disney/ABC Television Group confirmed in January that Vieira, who launched the weekday version of the game show in 2002, would depart the show when her contract expires.

Cedric is currently cocreator and star of TV Land's The Soul Man.