Conan O’Brien Set to Host the 2026 Oscars: What to Expect from the Iconic Comedian

In an announcement that has thrilled fans of both cinema and comedy, Conan O’Brien, the beloved late-night host, is slated to return as the emcee for the 2026 Academy Awards. This news comes on the heels of his well-received performance at this year’s Oscars, where his unique brand of humor shone through, offering viewers a delightful experience amid the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s biggest night. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and ABC made this exciting revelation on Monday, demonstrating their confidence in O’Brien’s ability to deliver yet another memorable ceremony.

Conan’s Enthusiastic Return

“The only reason I’m hosting ‘The Oscars’ next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” O’Brien quipped in a statement, hinting at the comedic flair that audiences can expect. By announcing O’Brien’s return nearly a year in advance, the Academy and ABC are not only showcasing their trust in the quirky comedian but are also setting the stage for a night filled with laughter and entertainment.

O’Brien’s humor during the 97th Academy Awards resonated well with the audience, which is significant compared to many of his comedic counterparts who often tread into politically charged territory. This year’s Oscar telecast experienced a modest increase in viewership, averaging 19.7 million viewers across ABC and streaming service Hulu, marking an increase of about 200,000 viewers from the previous year. These numbers represent the Oscars’ strongest performance in the last five years, particularly among the coveted 18 to 49 demographic that advertisers seek.

The Impact of O’Brien’s Hosting Style

Academy Chief Executive Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang praised O’Brien’s hosting prowess, stating, “Conan was the perfect host — skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth, and reverence.” This encapsulates O’Brien’s approach to hosting: blending wit with an appreciation for cinema, creating an atmosphere that honors the nominees and the industry as a whole.

The 2024 ceremony ran longer than expected — clocking in at 3 hours and 45 minutes — despite O’Brien’s playful assurances that he would keep the show moving. The highlight of the evening was Adrien Brody’s acceptance speech for his role in “The Brutalist,” which set a record for the longest Oscar speech at 5 minutes and 36 seconds. O’Brien’s ability to manage the unpredictabilities of live television while maintaining a light-hearted tone was a testament to his experience and talent.

Producers and Creative Team Behind the Ceremony

Returning alongside O’Brien will be television producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, who have been at the helm of the Oscar productions for three consecutive years. Producers Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney will also return, with Sweeney taking on the role of a writer as well. This continuity in leadership suggests a commitment to maintaining the high-quality entertainment that audiences have come to expect.

“This year, 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,” Kramer and Yang noted, highlighting the successful collaboration between the Academy and the production team. This synergy is crucial for creating a memorable experience that resonates with viewers and honors the artistry of film.

O’Brien’s Rich Legacy in Comedy

Conan O’Brien’s career spans decades, making him a seasoned veteran in the realm of television variety shows. From hosting “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” to “The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien” and his current podcast “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” O’Brien has consistently showcased his comedic talent and ability to connect with audiences. His extensive experience as a writer for iconic shows like “Saturday Night Live” and “The Simpsons” further solidifies his status as a comedy powerhouse.

Future of the Oscars and Streaming Considerations

The Oscars are set to air on ABC on March 15, 2026, at 4 p.m. Pacific time. However, speculation surrounds the future of the Oscars’ streaming availability on Hulu. The 2024 ceremony faced technical difficulties that affected many Hulu subscribers, raising questions about their ability to deliver a seamless viewing experience. As ABC enters the final phase of its contract to broadcast the Oscars, which extends through 2028 — the year marking the show’s 100th anniversary — the Academy’s partnership with Disney remains a pivotal point of discussion.

In 2023, the Academy reported a staggering total revenue of nearly $158 million, with over 90% derived from its television contracts for the Oscars. This financial reliance underscores the importance of maintaining a robust broadcasting strategy, which could influence decisions surrounding the continuation or expansion of streaming options.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from the 2026 Oscars

As we look forward to the 2026 Academy Awards, audiences can anticipate a night rich with humor, star-studded performances, and, undoubtedly, a few surprises. With Conan O’Brien at the helm, fans can expect not only a celebration of cinematic achievements but also a showcase of O’Brien’s unique comedic voice, which has the power to engage viewers and create memorable moments.

Conclusion

Conan O’Brien’s return to the Oscars as host is more than just a nostalgic nod to his past performances; it signals a commitment to delivering an engaging and entertaining ceremony that resonates with both the industry and viewers alike. As the Academy prepares for the 2026 event, the groundwork has been laid for a night that promises to be both a celebration of film and a testament to O’Brien’s enduring appeal. With an experienced production team backing him and a growing audience eager for entertainment, the 2026 Oscars could very well set new standards for what we expect from Hollywood’s biggest night.