Mario Lopez to Become Solo Host of 'Extra'
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Mario Lopez may be doing a happy dance after being picked as the new solo host of "Extra."
Lopez, 34, who has served as a correspondent for the syndicated entertainment newsmagazine and co-hosted its weekend edition since January 2007, will take over from co-hosts Mark McGrath and Dayna Devon, the producers of "Extra" announced Monday.
McGrath asked to released from his contract to focus on his band, Sugar Ray, which is recording a new album, Telepictures Productions said. He continued to perform with the band while on "Extra."
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Devon, with the show since 1999, will return to her "Extra" reporting roots with celebrity interviews and "celebrity lifestyle" stories and will serve as a substitute host for Lopez.
Lopez is a "rising star with a winning personality both on- and off-camera," "Extra" senior executive producer Lisa Gregorisch-Dempsey said.
Things are going his way: The one-time finalist on "Dancing with the Stars" is appearing on Broadway in a revival of the musical "A Chorus Line" and was named People magazine's "Hottest Bachelor" of 2008. His early credits include the sitcom "Saved by the Bell."
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Lopez is set to take over as anchor on Sept. 15 when the show begins its 15th season.