Conan O’Brien, the beloved television host and comedian, has been announced as the host for the upcoming Academy Awards. This significant assignment marks O’Brien’s debut as the figurehead of one of the most prestigious nights in cinema, a role previously held by a myriad of notable personalities. His addition to this elite group promises to bring a unique flavor of comedy and charisma in line with awards show traditions.
This year’s Oscars will be especially memorable as it will feature O’Brien’s brand of humor, coupled with his extensive background in television. O’Brien’s career has been built upon witty banter and improvisational comedy, which makes him an ideal candidate for the role of Oscars host. Academy Chief Executive Officer Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang expressed their excitement in a statement: “We are thrilled and honored to have the incomparable Conan O’Brien host the Oscars this year.” Their enthusiasm underscores the anticipation surrounding his ability to captivate audiences through humor while simultaneously celebrating cinematic arts.
O’Brien himself has embraced the announcement with characteristic flair, amusingly interweaving light-hearted commentary. In a nod to his comedic roots, he remarked, “America demanded it, and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.” With this quip, he not only showcased his famous humor but also connected the absurdity of modern culture with the glamour of the Oscars event. His ability to balance humor with moments of tributes and seriousness is what audiences look forward to during Oscars night.
In yet another show of confidence in O’Brien’s capabilities as a host, Oscars executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan echoed the sentiments of the Academy leadership, stating, “Conan has all the qualities of a great Oscars host — he is incredibly witty, charismatic, and funny, and has proven himself to be a master of live event television.” It’s clear that both producers and Academy officials believe that O’Brien will engage with the live audience and viewers at home, resulting in memorable moments that are part of the event’s legacy.
Having spent years in the world of late-night television, O’Brien comes with a wealth of experience. He is widely recognized for hosting “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” “The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien,” and his current endeavor, “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” a popular podcast where he interviews various celebrities in a casual and conversational format. This combination of experiences gives him a unique perspective on how to manage live events effectively—a skill critical for Oscars hosting.
In prior years, Jimmy Kimmel filled the role of Oscars host, taking the stage during the 2017, 2018, 2023, and 2024 ceremonies. Kimmel’s absence this time around is notable; he even revealed he turned down an offer to host for another round, opening the door for O’Brien to step in. This change gives rise to an exciting shift in dynamics, with veteran comic talent like O’Brien stepping into a position known for its high stakes and high expectations.
The 97th Academy Awards—scheduled for Sunday, March 2, 2025—will take place at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood and will air live on ABC. The event not only honors the top films and filmmakers of the year but also brings together a who’s who of Hollywood, capturing the glitz and glamour expected from such an illustrious occasion. O’Brien’s hosting debut is sure to be a talking point leading up to the event, as fans and critics alike eagerly await the comedic flair he is sure to contribute to the grand celebration of cinema.