Billy Crystal Goes “Off The Grid” For The Oscars [VIDEOS]

After the news that Eddie Murphy was stepping down as host of the 84th Academy Awards, the news of Billy Crystal returning as host received a mixed reception.  Some felt that Billy Crystal has been overused, while others feel the experienced host is exactly what the award show needs after the dismal hosting of Anne Hathaway and James Franco last year.  But when it comes down to it, Billy Crystal is the most beloved Oscar host, second only to Bob Hope.  With the Oscars coming up late next month, the first commercial for the show is out.  See if you can spot the cameos.

I'm very excited to see Billy Crystal back as host.  He's part of a dying breed of classic comedic performers that the current generation has little appreciation for.  This year will mark the 9th time Crystal has hosted the show (second only to Bob Hope's record of 18 times).  Below you can see the openings of the first time and last time Crystal hosted the Oscars.   YouTube has disabled the embedding on the rest of the videos, but you can find them by clicking the links.  1991, 1992, 1993, 1997, 1998, & 2000.