Neil Patrick Harris to front new 2015 variety show

Newly-announced 2015 Oscars host Neil Patrick Harris will warm-up for the Academy Awards by hosting a new variety show based on Britain's popular Ant and Dec's Saturday Night Takeaway.

The Gone Girl star has confirmed his new hour-long show will feature song and dance numbers, hidden cameras, celebrity guests and comedy sketches.

He says, "As I watched the show, I couldn't stop smiling. Now that I've seen many seasons, my face hurts. It's a game changer. Nothing like this has been done before, and its unique structure fits right into my random skill set. I can't wait to roll up my sleeves and have some fun."

The premiere date for his new show has not yet been set.