Conan O’Brien to make Oscars hosting debut at 97th ceremony in Los Angeles
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that Conan O’Brien, the Emmy Award-winning comedian, writer, and producer, will host the 97th Oscars on March 2, 2025. The live broadcast will take place at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will air globally through ABC and other outlets.
This will be O’Brien’s first time hosting the Oscars, adding him to a prestigious roster of comedic legends who have taken on the role. Known for his distinctive humor and decades-long success in television, O’Brien expressed his signature wit in response to 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.”
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang highlighted O’Brien’s unique ability to connect with audiences. “We are thrilled and honored to have the incomparable Conan O’Brien host the Oscars this year,” they said. “He is the perfect person to help lead our global celebration of film with his brilliant humor, his love of movies, and his live TV expertise.”
Craig Erwich, President of Disney Television Group, echoed their sentiments, praising O’Brien as “a preeminent comedic voice” whose career has been marked by remarkable success. “We are so lucky to have him center stage for the Oscars,” he said.
O’Brien’s career includes hosting “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” “The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien,” and “Conan,” alongside writing credits for “Saturday Night Live” and “The Simpsons.” He currently hosts the podcast “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” and recently starred in the travel show “Conan O’Brien Must Go.” With five Primetime Emmy wins and 31 nominations, O’Brien’s contribution to entertainment is well-established.
Executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan shared their excitement about collaborating with O’Brien for the upcoming ceremony. “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.”
The 97th Oscars, honoring the best in film, will include the traditional red carpet show at 6:30 p.m. ET/3:30 p.m. PT, followed by the ceremony at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The event will reach audiences in over 200 territories worldwide.