Neil Patrick Harris to host Tony Awards

Actor Neil Patrick Harris is to serve as host of the Tony Awards ceremony in New York for a third time, CBS said. Harris is best known for his work in the TV shows "Doogie Howser, M.D." and "How I Met Your Mother." He made his Broadway debut in the Pulitzer Prize-winning drama "Proof," and subsequently starred in "Cabaret" and "Assassins." The actor will preside over the 66th annual Tony Awards ceremony honoring the best new productions on Broadway June 10 at The Beacon Theater. Harris previously served as host of the 2009 and 2011 editions of the prize presentation. "I'm thrilled to be a part of this year's Tony Awards," Harris said in a statement. "Not only will I be shining a spotlight on the best that Broadway has to offer, but hopefully I'll score some free house seats to a show -- or five!" "We are excited to have Neil Patrick Harris return as host of the Tony Awards," said Jack Sussman, executive vice president of specials, music and live events for CBS Entertainment. "Neil is the ultimate showman. He brings great talent, energy and creativity to the Tony stage and usually a surprise or two. I can't wait to see what he has in store this year."