Oscar host Seth MacFarlane to bring surprise

"We live for the moments that happen on stage. Those are some of the great Oscar moments of the past. ... We hope there are moments where Seth can be completely spontaneous because that makes for a better show," Meron said.

"TED" APPEAL

Compared to well-known hosts from previous years such as Alec Baldwin, Steve Martin and Ellen DeGeneres, MacFarlane is better known by the numerous voices on his animated television shows and is not a regular in the Hollywood movie or TV scene.

The comedian has been playing up his outsider status in Oscar promotions. "Hi, I'm Seth MacFarlane - ask your kids - and I'll be hosting The Academy Awards - ask your parents," he quips in one video.

But MacFarlane holds strong appeal in a demographic highly desired by the Oscar organizers and advertisers - the coveted 18-49 audience who love his animated shows.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which hands out the Oscars, has struggled in recent years to appeal to a younger audience. More than 39 million Americans tuned in to watch Crystal take the helm in 2012, but some critics called the show old-fashioned.

MacFarlane earned his movie credentials last year after his raunchy directorial debut with "Ted," about a foul-mouthed pot-smoking teddy bear, became the highest-grossing R-rated original comedy in movie history.

The film's star Mark Wahlberg will be joining the naughty bear on stage on Sunday to present an award.

MacFarlane has also showcased his singing talents on "Family Guy," with big musical numbers such as the catchy "Shipoopi" from Broadway hit "The Music Man" and a cheeky musical retort to federal TV regulators.

The host is also nominated for an Oscar for writing the lyrics to "Everybody Needs a Best Friend" from "Ted".

"You don't hire Seth MacFarlane and not have tons of comedy. Because Seth also has a beautiful voice, it allows a host who does a lot of comedy and sings beautifully. So we are going to make use of his ability as a singer," Zadan said.