Mario Named New Host for EXTRA!

[Erika]

Mario Lopez Named New Host of Extra
By Shreya Baxi
Originally posted Monday July 28, 2008 03:50 PM EDT

Extra is saying goodbye to host Mark McGrath and hello to new anchor Mario Lopez, once the show returns for its 15th season on Sept. 15, its producers have announced.

Current co-host Dayna Devon is due to remain as a special correspondent on the show, which has been renewed through the 2011-12 season.

Lopez, 34, who last month was named PEOPLE's hottest bachelor, joined Extra in January 2007 and co-hosted the weekend edition of the program.

"Mario ... has established himself as a highly engaging, likeable and sought-after host and personality," Hilary Estey McLoughlin, president of Telepictures Productions, said in a statement.

After three years on Extra, McGrath, 40, plans to focus on his musical career, said the producers' announcement. He is currently recording a new album with his band, Sugar Ray.

CREDIT:
www.people.com/people/article/0,,20215367,00.html?xid=rss-topheadlines