The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially announced that Conan O’Brien will host the 2025 Academy Awards, marking the comedian’s debut as the emcee of Hollywood’s most prestigious event. The announcement has sent waves of excitement through the entertainment world, as O’Brien is known for his sharp wit, improvisational skills, and an unmistakable flair for connecting with audiences. The 2025 Oscars, set to air on March 2nd, will be the 97th edition of the iconic awards show, and O’Brien is poised to bring a fresh comedic voice to the ceremony, following the two-year stint of Jimmy Kimmel.
In a typically humorous statement, O’Brien joked about his new role, saying, “America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.” This playful remark highlights O’Brien’s signature comedic style, which blends absurdity with self-deprecating humor, promising a unique tone for the upcoming show.
The decision to bring Conan O’Brien on board reflects the Academy’s desire to inject new energy and entertainment into the ceremony, after Kimmel’s recent hosting run. His quick wit and vast experience in front of the camera make him a strong choice to follow Kimmel, who hosted the Oscars four times over the past eight years, cementing his status as a reliable, though often conventional, choice for the role. O’Brien’s comedic sensibilities and history of live television hosting offer a contrast to Kimmel’s more familiar presence, and there is anticipation regarding how he will approach the prestigious gig.
O’Brien is a veteran of late-night television, best known for his tenure as host of “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” followed by “The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien,” and later his own “Conan” show. His influence in the late-night world has made him a household name, and he has an extensive background in both comedy and television production. Additionally, O’Brien’s experience hosting major events, including the Emmy Awards and the MTV Movie Awards, has prepared him for the gravity of the Oscars stage. His quick wit and knack for improvisation, honed through years of live television, will undoubtedly keep viewers entertained throughout the evening.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their confidence in O’Brien’s ability to bring a dynamic and engaging energy to the Oscars, stating in a joint statement, “He is the perfect person to help lead our global celebration of film with his brilliant humor, his love of movies, and his live TV expertise.” They also emphasized O’Brien’s remarkable ability to connect with audiences, which will be essential as the Oscars aim to not only honor the best films of the year but also engage a diverse, global audience.
O’Brien’s hosting credentials extend beyond the Oscars, with multiple Emmy Award wins, a popular podcast titled Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, and years of experience working as a writer for shows like Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons. His previous hosting experience at major events like the White House Correspondents’ Dinner further solidifies his qualifications for the role.
The announcement comes after a year of media reports suggesting that O’Brien was the Academy’s top choice, with other high-profile figures like Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Will Ferrell, Amy Poehler, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson reportedly being approached to take on the role. Some, including Jimmy Kimmel and comedian John Mulaney, reportedly turned down offers to host, creating an opening for O’Brien to step in and bring his distinctive comedic touch to the event.
The 2025 Oscars are set to be an exciting night, as O’Brien’s unique hosting style will likely take the spotlight, making this an evening to remember for film lovers and casual viewers alike. With the 97th Academy Awards fast approaching, all eyes will be on Conan O’Brien as he prepares to take Hollywood’s biggest stage and deliver a night filled with laughter, surprises, and, of course, the celebration of film.
