Former 'Tonight Show' host Conan O'Brien is set to host the 97th Annual Academy Awards, bringing his unique blend of humor and live TV expertise to Hollywood's biggest night.
- November 16, 2024
AceShowbiz - Famed comedian and talk show host Conan O'Brien has been tapped to host the 2025 Oscars, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Friday, November 15. The ceremony will take place on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, and it marks O'Brien's first time emceeing the prestigious event.
"America demanded it and now it's happening: Taco Bell's new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I'm hosting the Oscars," O'Brien, 61, joked in his statement, showing off his trademark witty humor.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang expressed their excitement in a joint press release, "We are thrilled and honored to have the incomparable Conan O'Brien host the Oscars this year."
"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. His remarkable ability to connect with audiences will bring viewers together to do what the Oscars do best - honor the spectacular films and filmmakers of this year."
O'Brien boasts a distinguished career, starting with his work as a writer for "Saturday Night Live" and "The Simpsons" before transitioning to late-night television. His shows, including "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" and "Conan," have left an indelible mark on the late-night landscape. He also has experience hosting major events, such as the Emmy Awards in 2002 and 2006 and the White House Correspondents' Dinner in 1995 and 2013.
Following the footsteps of previous "Tonight Show" hosts like Johnny Carson, who hosted the Oscars five times between 1979 and 1984, O'Brien will be carrying on a cherished tradition. "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," said Oscars executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan.
O'Brien's selection continues the trend of late-night hosts anchoring the event, with Jimmy Kimmel having helmed the past ceremonies in 2017, 2018, 2023, and 2024. Kimmel, along with fellow comedian John Mulaney, declined the hosting gig for 2025, paving the way for O'Brien's debut.
Beyond his TV and event-hosting roles, O'Brien remains active with his travel show "Conan O'Brien Must Go" and his popular podcast "Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend." With five Primetime Emmys and 31 nominations under his belt, his addition as host is expected to bring a fresh and enticing dynamic to the Oscars.
Younger audiences, in particular, are eagerly anticipating how O'Brien's witty and engaging style will transform the Academy Awards into an evening that not only celebrates cinematic achievements but also entertains a global audience.
Tune in on March 2, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET, to catch all the action live on ABC. The Oscars red carpet show will precede the event at 6:30 p.m. ET, promising a night filled with glamour, laughter, and unforgettable moments.