The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Monday that Conan O’Brien will return to host the Oscars next year. This decision marks one of the earliest renewals in Oscar hosting history, showcasing the Academy's confidence in O’Brien after his impressive debut. He hosted the 97th Oscar telecast, which achieved a remarkable five-year ratings high for ABC, demonstrating his ability to engage and entertain audiences.
O’Brien's first experience as an Oscar host was met with acclaim, as he received high marks for his performance. In a humorous statement, he mentioned, “The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” referencing Brody’s memorable five-minute acceptance speech after winning the Oscar for Best Actor. This light-hearted comment reflects O’Brien’s unique blend of humor and reverence for the prestigious event.
Alongside O’Brien, the show's producers, Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney, will also return for a second consecutive year. Furthermore, the ceremony’s executive producers, Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, will be back for their third year. This continuity among the production team aims to enhance the overall quality and entertainment value of the Oscars.
The highly anticipated ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 15, 2026. Hosting the Oscar telecast is often described as a challenging role. The comedian Chevy Chase once referred to it as “the most thankless job in the world.” Hosts usually don't receive much credit for a successful show but are often blamed when things go awry. In recent years, the Academy has made efforts to secure hosts earlier in the process, although they typically announce their selections only a few months before the event.
In November 2023, Jimmy Kimmel signed on for his fourth and final hosting stint. O’Brien’s announcement followed in November 2024, indicating a strategic shift in how the Academy approaches its hosting selections. The Academy’s chief executive, Bill Kramer, and president, Janet Yang, praised O’Brien’s hosting skills, stating, “Conan was the perfect host — skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth, and reverence.”
With the return of Conan O'Brien as the Oscars host, fans can look forward to another entertaining evening filled with laughter and memorable moments. The Academy is counting on O'Brien's comedic talent and experience to deliver a stellar show that resonates with audiences around the world.
