Film and stageveteran Bob Balaban was announced yesterday as host for the 14th Annual GothamAwards on Dec 1 in New York City.

Balaban'snumerous feature credits include Gosford Park, Best In Show, A Mighty Wind,Midnight Cowboy, Close Encounters and the upcoming Marie And Bruce.

"We are thrilledto have Bob Balaban hosting the awards this year," IFP/ New York executivedirector Michelle Byrd said in a statement. "His body of work as both an actorand a producer are indicative of his commitment to independent film. With his sense of humour and quick wit,he is sure to provide a highly entertaining evening."

For the firsttime ever the Gothams will feature red carpet interviews with talent as theyarrive, including Hedwig And The Angry Inch director John Cameron Mitchell.