Conan O’Brien Set to Host the Oscars Again Next Year

Following his memorable performance as the host of the 97th Oscar awards, Conan O’Brien has been confirmed to return as emcee for the next ceremony. This announcement marks a notably early decision by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

The Academy acknowledges the positive feedback O’Brien received for his inaugural Oscar hosting gig, which was broadcast on ABC this month. This recognition has paved the way for his return engagement.

Expressing his enthusiasm for being on board once more, O’Brien humorously remarked, 'My motivation to return as Oscar host is purely to hear Adrien Brody wrap up his acceptance speech,' referencing Brody’s famously lengthy address after receiving the best actor award.

In addition to O’Brien’s return, the show’s producers, Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney, will also be back for another year. Moreover, executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan are set to continue their involvement for a third consecutive year. The event is scheduled for March 15, 2026.

Hosting the Oscars comes with its unique set of challenges. The role has been famously dubbed by creative figures like Chevy Chase as 'the most thankless job worldwide.' Hosts are often overlooked when the night goes smoothly, yet they frequently bear the brunt of criticism when problems arise.

In recent years, the academy has made it a point to decide on hosts well in advance, although it typically waits until the preceding November to announce them. For instance, Jimmy Kimmel was officially confirmed in November 2023 for his final hosting role. Similarly, O’Brien's hosting was confirmed by November 2024.

According to a statement from Bill Kramer, the academy’s CEO, and Janet Yang, the organization's president, 'Conan exemplified the role of host impeccably, blending humor, warmth, and respect throughout the evening.'