Conan O’Brien has been announced as the host of the 97th Academy Awards, taking over duties for Hollywood’s iconic awards ceremony. The event will air live on ABC on March 2, as revealed by the network on Friday.
O’Brien, known for his sharp wit, humorously addressed the news, joking, “America demanded it, and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.”
Conan O’Brien to host the 97th Academy Awards this March
In a statement, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang praised O’Brien as an ideal choice for the event. They highlighted his sharp humor, passion for cinema, and extensive experience with live television, describing him as the perfect person to headline the celebration of film.
They further commended O’Brien’s unique ability to connect with viewers, emphasizing that his hosting would unify audiences and showcase the Academy Awards’ core purpose: honoring the year’s most exceptional films and filmmakers.
At 61, O’Brien brings a wealth of experience to the role. He is a veteran of late-night television, having hosted NBC’s “Late Night” for years before launching his TBS show, “Conan,” which aired from 2010 to 2021.
In recent years, Jimmy Kimmel has frequently hosted the Oscars, including the past two ceremonies and previously in 2017 and 2018. Kimmel’s hosting stint earlier this year included a pointed jab at former President Trump, who had criticized his performance. Reading Trump’s remarks about being the “worst Oscars host,” Kimmel responded on stage with a sharp retort: “Isn’t it past your jail time?”
