Conan O’Brien Announced as Oscars Host: ‘America Demanded It'

Mar. 15, 2025

Conan O’Brien attends the 73rd Primetime Emmy Awards on September 19, 2021 in Los Angeles, California.Photo:Rich Fury/Getty

Rich Fury/Getty

Conan O’Brienis giving the people what they want.

The former late-night show host, 61, is set to host the 97th annualAcademy Awardson March 2, 2025, marking his first time emceeing Hollywood’s biggest night.

“America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme," O’Brien said of the gig, adding: “In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.”

Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang added that they are “thrilled and honored to have the incomparable” O’Brienserve as the host.

Conan O’Brien attends the photo call for Los Angeles premiere of “Conan O’Brien Must Go” on April 16, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic

In July, PEOPLE confirmed thatJimmy Kimmeldeclined to return to emcee the ceremonyfor what would have been the fifth time.John Mulaneyalso declined the gig, a source told PEOPLE at the time.

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Fellow stars likeRyan Reynolds,Hugh Jackman,Will Ferrell,Amy PoehlerandDwayne Johnsonhad also been approached to host,Deadlinereported in October, citing sources.

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“He joins an iconic roster of comedy greats who have served in this role, and we are so lucky to have him center stage for the Oscars.”

“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,” added Oscars executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan. “We are so looking forward to working with him to deliver a fresh, exciting and celebratory show for Hollywood’s biggest night.”

source: people.com