Conan O’Brien to Host the 97th Academy Awards

Beloved comedian Conan O’Brien will emcee the 97th Oscars on March 2, 2025, marking his first time hosting Hollywood’s biggest night.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that Conan O’Brien will host the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, March 2, 2025. This marks the first time the beloved comedian and late-night veteran will take center stage at the Oscars, which will be broadcast live from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles to over 200 territories worldwide.

At 61, O’Brien brings decades of television experience, including his Emmy-winning work as a writer for Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons, as well as his popular podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang praised his “brilliant humor, love of movies, and live TV expertise” as the perfect fit to celebrate the year’s best in film.

O’Brien humorously addressed the announcement: “America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.”

The 96th Oscars were hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, but O’Brien now joins an elite roster of comedians chosen to lead Hollywood’s most prestigious night. Producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, returning from the previous ceremony, expressed their excitement for O’Brien’s wit and charisma to deliver a fresh and entertaining show.

Get ready for a night of laughter and cinematic celebration as Conan O’Brien takes the stage to honor this year’s standout films and filmmakers.