Neil Patrick Harris to Host Tony Awards

 Image by PR Photos

Neil Patrick Harris has been chosen as the host of the 2009 Tony Awards. He seems like the perfect choice for the job, although we hear through the grapevine that he wasn’t the first choice.

Surprisingly, James Gandolfini was the producers’ first choice. He’s currently starring in the Broadway production of God of Carnage, and has been nominated for a Tony for his role.

James was surprised they had asked him, and respectfully declined, saying he wasn’t much of a “song and dance man.” He’ll still be a part of this year’s show—but just as a presenter.

So that leaves hosting duties to Neil Patrick Harris! He said in a statement today, “The discipline of live theatre — doing the same perfect thing night after night, eight times a week — never ceases to amaze me. I’m truly honored to have been chosen as the Master of Ceremonies for this year’s Tony Awards, and I hope to help provide a first-class evening for all.”

The Tonys will air live at 8PM ET on CBS June 7th.