Alec Baldwin to replace Robert Osborne as The Essentials host

Actor Alec Baldwin has been named as the new host of Turner Classic Movies' "

The Essentials

," replacing Robert Osborne on the show.

One of

TCM

's most popular franchises, "The Essentials" showcases classic films, often with commentary from special guests.

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Joining Baldwin for the show's upcoming season, which kicks off on May 6, will be David Letterman, Baldwin's former "30 Rock" co-star and series creator Tina Fey, and Oscar- winning director William Friedkin, reported Entertainment Weekly.

With each of his guests, Baldwin will introduce a hand- picked list of classics and discuss the cultural and cinematic significance of the films.

Osborne, who died last month, had been with TCM since its inception in 1994. He hosted "The Essentials" from 2006 to 2015.

"I have some big shoes to fill hosting The Essentials, and I plan on doing Bob proud with this new season of The Essentials," Baldwin said in a statement.