Lopez replaces Natalie Morales, who exited the show in April
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Mario Lopez is joining “Access Hollywood” and its companion daytime program, “Access Daily,” as the entertainment news programs’ newest host, NBCUniversal announced on Wednesday.
The longtime “Extra” host will join Kit Hoover and Scott Evans as a host on both shows beginning Monday, Sept. 9, filling the seat vacated by Natalie Morales in April.
In addition to his new role on “Access,” Lopez has also signed an overall deal with Universal Television and Universal Television Alternative Studio to develop and produce both scripted and unscripted content for the studios.
Lopez has hosted Warner Bros. TV Distribution’s syndicated entertainment newsmagazine “Extra” since 2008. He also hosts the iHeartMedia radio shows “On with Mario Lopez” and “iHeartRadio Countdown with Mario Lopez,” in addition to a number of other TV hosting duties.
“Mario is a multi-talented television personality. Drawing from his experience as an entertainment TV and radio host, actor, author, and, of course, a father and husband, Mario brings a fresh voice and perspective with creative ideas to our business,” said Tracie Wilson, executive vice president, Creative Affairs, NBCUniversal Domestic TV Distribution. “Our viewers know him and love him, and we are so excited to have him as a part of the NBCUniversal family.”
“We are thrilled to have someone of Mario’s caliber join our ‘Access’ team,” said Maureen FitzPatrick, senior executive producer of both “Access Hollywood” and “Access Daily.” “Mario has grown up in the business and is able to offer our viewers a unique insight on the latest Hollywood headlines. Additionally, as a husband and father of three young children, he has a respect for the daytime audience who are looking for a break in their hectic lives with uplifting stories of everyday people transforming their lives and making a difference in their communities.”
“I have long admired the team at NBCUniversal and all the shows being produced,” Lopez said. “I’m thrilled to have an opportunity to join in that success and develop scripted and alternative projects on their many creative platforms.”
Deadline first reported the news.
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