Neil Patrick Harris to star in variety series for NBC based on popular UK show “Saturday Night Takeway”

Love all that is happening in Neil Patrick Harris career right now because with each triumph, he is reiterating that an openly gay man can be a huge success in movies and television if they have the talent and appeal.

NPH has it in spades.

It was announced today that the recent Tony winner – and newlywed – will host the US version of the UK series Saturday Night Takeaway for NBC.

Ten episodes of the show have been ordered but they will not air on Saturday nights. The US version does not yet have a title and will be produced by the UK-based ITV.

‘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,” Harris tells New York Magazine.

‘Nothing like this has been done before, and it’s unique structure fits right into my random skill set. I can’t wait to roll up my sleeves and have some fun!’

At the time he was discussed as a possible successor to David Letterman, Harris said he was not interested in being on television every night but would be open to some kind of weekly variety gig.

It looks like he found it.

The new TV show is being announced during a flurry of activity for Harris who recently was chosen to host the 2015 Academy Awards, had a role in the hit film Gone Girl, and released his memoirs.