Conan O’Brien Set to Host the 98th Academy Awards in 2026

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially announced that Conan O’Brien, the beloved comedian and former late-night host, will be returning to host the 98th Academy Awards in March 2026. This announcement marks a significant moment for the Oscars, as O’Brien’s previous hosting gig was met with widespread acclaim.

O’Brien himself expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating in a press release that he feels he has "unfinished business" from his previous stint. The comedian playfully quipped, "The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech," referencing Brody’s notoriously long and somewhat controversial acceptance speech for Best Actor at the 2003 Oscars. This self-aware humor is characteristic of O’Brien and hints at the comedic approach he’s likely to bring to the 2026 ceremony.

O’Brien’s prior experience hosting the Oscars was undoubtedly a success. His opening monologue was lauded for its lack of overly political or mean-spirited jokes, a refreshing departure from some previous ceremonies. He managed to strike a balance between humor and respect, earning laughs while keeping the nearly four-hour show moving at a brisk pace. Many viewers felt that O’Brien was a perfect fit for the role, skillfully guiding the audience through the evening with humor, warmth, and reverence.

The Academy’s decision to bring back O’Brien likely stems from the positive reception of the previous Oscars ceremony. The 97th Oscars attracted a substantial viewership of 19.69 million, marking a five-year high. This surge in viewership may be partly attributed to O’Brien’s hosting, as well as the availability of the ceremony on streaming platforms like Hulu.

Adding to the anticipation, O’Brien will be bringing his trusted "Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend" podcast crew along for the ride. Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney, key members of his podcast team, will return as Oscars producers, signaling that O’Brien’s distinct comedic sensibilities will heavily influence the show’s direction. Academy President Janet Yang praised this decision, highlighting the importance of a strong production team in delivering a memorable event.

Furthermore, Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, seasoned professionals who have served as executive producers for the Academy Awards for the past two years, will also be returning. Academy CEO Bill Kramer confirmed their involvement, underscoring the Academy’s commitment to building upon the successes of previous ceremonies. The collaboration between O’Brien’s team and the existing production team suggests a blend of fresh comedic ideas and established industry expertise.

The Academy is clearly aiming to create a show that resonates with a wide audience. By tapping into O’Brien’s proven comedic talent and his team’s innovative approach, the Oscars are positioning themselves for continued success in attracting viewers and celebrating the world of cinema.

Janet Yang and Bill Kramer jointly stated in the AMPAS release, "Conan was the perfect host — skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth, and reverence. They produced a hugely entertaining and visually stunning show that celebrated our nominees and the global film community in the most beautiful and impactful way."

The 98th Oscars are scheduled to air live on ABC on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. With Conan O’Brien at the helm, expectations are high for an entertaining and memorable evening celebrating the best in film. The ceremony promises a blend of humor, heart, and the traditional glamour that has long defined the Academy Awards. The return of key production personnel ensures a visually stunning and technically proficient broadcast. The date is already circled on the calendars of film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike, as they eagerly await what promises to be a captivating event.

The choice of O’Brien also signals a potential shift in the Academy’s approach to hosting duties. In recent years, there has been debate about the ideal tone and style for the Oscars host. Some have favored hosts who embrace political commentary and social critique, while others have advocated for a more lighthearted and celebratory approach. O’Brien’s success in balancing humor with respect suggests that the Academy is prioritizing a host who can entertain without alienating viewers or overshadowing the accomplishments of the nominees. His ability to connect with both the audience in the theater and the viewers at home makes him a particularly appealing choice.

Beyond the comedic element, O’Brien’s extensive experience in television production and performance makes him a reliable and capable host. He has a natural rapport with celebrities and a knack for improvising, which are valuable assets in a live event like the Oscars. His ability to think on his feet and handle unexpected situations ensures that the ceremony will run smoothly, even if unforeseen challenges arise.

The return of O’Brien represents a strategic move by the Academy to maintain the Oscars’ relevance and appeal in a rapidly changing media landscape. By bringing back a beloved and respected figure like O’Brien, the Academy is reinforcing the tradition and prestige associated with the awards while also injecting a dose of contemporary humor and entertainment.