Gervais for Golden Globes

Comedian to host ceremony for third time in a row...

09:55 17 November 2011

Ricky Gervais is to host next year's Golden Globe awards for the third time in a row, despite provoking controversy in the role earlier this year.

The announcement was made through the official Golden Globes Twitter, with a post that read:

"Ricky Gervais will host the 69th Golden Globe Awards on January 15, 2012."

Organisers, the Hollywood Foreign Press Association [HFPA], also confirmed the news with a statement:

"After weeks of rumours, it's finally official - Ricky Gervais will be back to host the Golden Globes for a third year.

"While many welcome Gervais' return, not everyone is happy with the decision because last year his blunt one-liners targeting big-name celebrities caused anger and resentment in some quarters."

Gervais' last turn as host in January caused some controversy, after he openly poked fun at the gathered celebrities and the HFPA.

His performance left many wondering if he would be allowed to return to host the show again.

The US ceremony is to be held on 15 January 2012 and honours performances in film and television.