Story highlights Actor-comedian Ricky Gervais will return to host the Golden Globes in January

Gervais hosted three past Globes award shows but not since 2012

(The Hollywood Reporter) The Golden Globes has tapped a familiar face to host the 2016 telecast.

The Hollywood Foreign Press Association announced Monday that Ricky Gervais would return to emcee the January 10 telecast.

Gervais' return, which comes after three very highly-rated NBC telecasts hosted by Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, marks his fourth time managing the stage. He previously hosted in 2010, 2011 and 2012 — capping off a long run where the show had no host at all.

"We're excited to have Ricky Gervais back to host the most enjoyable awards show of the season in his own inimitable way," said NBC Entertainment chairman Robert Greenblatt.

"Disarming and surprising, Ricky is ready to honor — and send up — the best work of the year in film and television. Fasten your seats belts."

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