Mario Lopez Named Host of TV's Extra

Mario Lopez, who is currently playing Zach in the Broadway revival of A Chorus Line, has been named the new host of the daily syndicated entertainment magazine program Extra, effective September 15. Lopez will remain with A Chorus Line until it closes on August 17.

Lopez has appeared as a correspondent for the daily edition of Extra and co-hosted its weekend edition since January 2007. He will replace longtime co-host Dayna Devon, who will become a special correspondent focusing on celebrity interviews and lifestyle reporting, in addition to serving as Lopez's backup host. Current co-host Mark McGrath is leaving the show after three years at his request to record and tour with his band, Sugar Ray.

Recently named Hottest Bachelor of 2008 by People magazine, Lopez has appeared on Dancing with the Stars and hosts the reality-competition series Randy Jackson Presents America's Best Dance Crew, now in its second season on MTV. His other television credits include starring roles in telefilms Holidays in Handcuffs, Husband for Hire, Breaking the Surface: The Greg Louganis Story, hosting the 2007 Miss America Pageant, guest appearances on Nip/Tuck and George Lopez, in addition to the series Saved by the Bell and Pacific Blue.