Conan O’Brien is returning to television to celebrate cinema. The Emmy Award-winning producer, comedian, writer and, of course, television host has been tapped to host the 97th Academy Awards, which will air live on March 2, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. ET on ABC.
“America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Chickie Chalupa Supreme. O’Brien said: “In other news, I will be hosting the Oscars.”
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences CEO and President Bill Kramer said in a joint statement: “We are thrilled and honored that the incomparable Conan O’Brien will be hosting this year’s Academy Awards,” said Kramer. “He is the perfect person to help lead our global celebration of cinema with his wonderful sense of humor, love of cinema and expertise in live television. “His exceptional ability to connect with audiences will bring viewers together to do what the Oscars do best: Honor the great films and filmmakers of the year.”
Craig Erwich, President, Disney Television Group, said: “Conan is an iconic comedic voice whose success over the decades has been defined by his distinctive humor and perspective.” “He joins an illustrious list of comedy greats who have played the role, and we are very fortunate to have him center stage at the Oscars.”
Executive producers of the 2025 Oscars, Raj Kapoor and Katie Mullan, said: “Conan has all the makings of a great Oscar presenter: “He’s smart, charismatic, incredibly funny, and has proven himself to be a master of live television. “We look forward to working with him to bring a fresh, exciting and celebratory presentation to Hollywood’s biggest night.”
O’Brien is best known for hosting “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” and “The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien,” as well as “Conan” on TNT. He currently hosts the podcast “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” and recently starred in the travel show “Conan O’Brien Must Go” (2024).
Before that, he wrote for “Saturday Night Live” and “The Simpsons.” O’Brien has won five Primetime Emmy Awards and has been nominated 31 times.
The 2025 Oscars will be broadcast live from Ovation’s Dolby Theater in Los Angeles and, in addition to ABC, will be broadcast in more than 200 territories around the world. Prior to the ceremony, the official live red carpet show begins at 6:30 p.m. ET.
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