Ron James will host the broadcast Gemini Awards gala in November.Ron James will host the broadcast Gemini Awards gala in November. (Andrew MacNaughtan/CBC)

Comedian Ron James is heading west next month to host the broadcast portion of Canada's most prominent TV honours, the Gemini Awards.

Organizers of the 24th annual awards gala tapped the Cape Breton comedian for the gig on Tuesday.

"Ron James will bring an exciting electricity to the awards show," Sara Morton, CEO of the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television, said in a statement. "It will be a most fitting celebration of the best in Canadian television."

Comedy stalwart James recently debuted his eponymous show, which combines skits and stand-up, on CBC-TV.

CTV police thriller Flashpoint leads this year's Gemini contenders after nabbing 19 nominations, including for best drama.

With 99 Gemini categories, the awards are typically presented in several ceremonies. The majority of the winners will be revealed during two untelevised celebrations in Toronto on Oct. 19 and 20.

The broadcast gala follows in Calgary on Nov. 14.