TV Watch Update

Ashton Kutcher Is Replacing Charlie Sheen on Two and a Half Men

By Dahvi Shira

UPDATED 05/13/2011 at 02:15 PM EDT • Originally published 05/13/2011 at 01:05 PM EDT

The speculation is over.

Ashton Kutcher, 33, is officially taking over for Charlie Sheen on Two and a Half Men, CBS announced on Friday.

"I can't replace Charlie Sheen, but I'm going to work my ass off to entertain the hell out of people!" Kutcher, 33, said in a statement.

"We are so lucky to have someone as talented, joyful and just plain remarkable as Ashton joining our family," the hit show's creator Chuck Lorre said.

RELATED: Ashton Kutcher on Two and a Half Men: Will You Watch?

Sheen reacted to the news on Friday, telling TMZ: "Kutcher is a sweetheart and a brilliant comedic performer ... Oh wait, so am I!!"

He also took another swipe at Lorre, saying, "Enjoy planet Chuck, Ashton. There is no air, laughter, loyalty, or love there."

Production on the ninth season of the show is scheduled to begin this summer and will air in the fall.