New ‘Millionaire’ Host Is Cedric The Entertainer

There is a new Millionaire host for the game show’s 12 season in syndication.

Who Wants to Be a Millionaire will now be hosted by comedian Cedric the Entertainer, who takes over for Meredith Viera.

Cedric the Entertainer will have some big shoes to fill as the new Millionaire host, as Viera actually launched the weekday version of the show in 2002 and has remained its host for 11 seasons. But the new host said he’s jumping at the chance to join the Millionaire franchise.

“I’m truly looking forward to hosting Millionaire,” Cedric the Entertainer said. “The show is a modern day game show GIANT, and the team at Disney-ABC has been great at putting the right elements together over 11 seasons. I’m excited to entertain all those who watch and play as season 12 launches … It’s going to be a good time every day!!”

Cedric the Entertainer is most known for his work on the comedy stage and in movies. After his first televised stand-up comedy appearance in 1987 on It’s Showtime at the Apollo, Cedric has done a number of television appearances and was also part of the record-breaking Kings of Comedy tour with Steve Harvey, the late Bernie Mac, and D.L. Hughley. Cedric has also been in movies Barbershop, Madagascar,Ice Age, Charlotte’s Web, and Be Cool.

ABC officials said they were pleased with the selection for the new Millionaire host.

“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 of 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.”

Cedric the Entertainer will take over as the new Millionaire host this fall for the show’s 12th season.