The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced Emmy-winning comedian Conan O’Brien as host of the 97th Academy Awards, marking a significant shift in the ceremony’s hosting tradition. The veteran entertainer characteristically introduced his appointment with trademark wit, quipping, “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 immediately set the tone for his upcoming hosting duties with a cleverly crafted social media video, in which he playfully confused hosting the ceremony with winning an Oscar, demonstrating the self-deprecating humor that has become his hallmark over three decades in entertainment. Industry veterans anticipate his unique brand of intellectual comedy and improvisational skills will bring fresh energy to Hollywood’s most prestigious night.
The appointment of O’Brien, a Harvard-educated comedy writer turned late-night icon, represents a strategic choice for the Academy. Oscar executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan emphasized his credentials, noting, “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.”
The 61-year-old brings impressive credentials to the role, including five Primetime Emmy Awards and 31 nominations. His career spans foundational writing work on “Saturday Night Live” and “The Simpsons,” followed by successful runs hosting “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” “The Tonight Show,” and “Conan.” His current projects include the travel series “Conan O’Brien Must Go” and the popular podcast “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” demonstrating his versatility across entertainment formats.
O’Brien follows Jimmy Kimmel’s consecutive hosting duties in 2023 and 2024, and the 2022 trio of Regina Hall, Amy Schumer, and Wanda Sykes. His selection comes after the Academy’s experiment with hostless ceremonies between 2019 and 2021, suggesting a return to strong, singular voices leading the broadcast.
The 97th Academy Awards ceremony will take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. While official nominations are still months away, industry observers are already speculating about potential contenders, with “The Brutalist,” “Emilia Perez,” and “Anora” generating early awards season buzz.
Entertainment professionals can access exclusive coverage and behind-the-scenes preparations for the ceremony through the Academy’s industry portal.
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