Oscars 2015: Neil Patrick Harris reckons all you need for Christmas is him in new promo video

The Gone Girl actor gave a special festive message ahead of the ceremony

Neil Patrick Harris will host the 2015 Oscars (Getty Images)

Neil Patrick Harris has appeared in a Christmas promotional video for the star-studded 2015 Oscars.

The Gone Girl actor can be seen suited and booted, standing next to a golden statuette, in the entertaining clip.

"This holiday season, give your family a gift they'll never forget. Instead of traditional presents, give them the gift of simply telling them to watch me host the Oscars," he says, tongue firmly in cheek (or is it?).

Harris, best known for playing Barney Stinson in hit sitcom How I Met Your Mother, was confirmed as the new host in October.

He has hosted television's Emmys and theatre's Tonys in the past - both to high acclaim.

Harris told Entertainment Weekly recently that he is determined to make next year's Oscars "a classy event".

"I've always loved the Oscars and have great respect for its history, and the gowns, and the classiness of it,' he said.

Past Oscars hosts include Ellen DeGeneres, Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane, Hugh Jackman and Billy Crystal.

The 87th Academy Awards will broadcast live from Hollywood's Dolby Theatre on Sunday 22 February.

Films expected to earn Oscar nominations include The Theory of Everything, The Imitation Game, Birdman and Boyhood.