"Extra" host Mario Lopez is hosting Miss America for the third time, TLC announced Wednesday morning.
The onetime "Dancing with the Stars" contestant, 36, also helmed the annual pageant in 2007 and 2009.
The ceremony will air live on Jan. 30 from the Planet Hollywood Resort and Casino in Las Vegas.
Fifty-three contestants, including Miss District of Columbia, Miss Virgin Islands and Miss Puerto Rico, will compete 2010 pageant in interview, swimsuit, evening gown and talent categories.
Katie Stam of Indiana holds the crown as the current Miss America.
15 Little-Known Facts about Mario Lopez!
One of Mario's diet secrets is to never drink soda.
Mario tries to go to church every week.
Picky When it Comes to Veggies
Mario says he likes to eat his veggies cold… but not cooked.
You won't see Mario walking under a ladder — he's very superstitious!
Mario jokes that he is “the only Mexican without a middle name.”
Mario loves coffee, he drinks it black all day!
Mario's favorite ice cream flavor is, no surprise, coffee.
One of his passions in life is dancing. He has aspirations to one day dance on the stage at Radio City Music Hall in NYC.
Mario has no tattoos or body piercings.
Mario lives an active lifestyle and loves sports. He once broke an ankle while wrestling.
Mario is a big boxing fan. His favorite boxer is Mexico's Julio Cesar Chavez.
Mario Lopez was born October 10, 1973, in San Diego, California.
His first role was on the series “a.k.a Pablo.” He was a dancer and drummer on the syndicated children's music series “Kids Incorporated.” Mario's most famous role was on the popular Saturday morning comedy series “Saved by the Bell” — as self-assured jock, A.C. Slater.
Interviewed President Obama
In October 2008, Mario interviewed presidential candidate Barack Obama — Mario almost missed the interview because he overslept!
