Conan O'Brien will take the stage as the host of the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025, marking his debut as the emcee of Hollywood's most prestigious night. This announcement was made by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which anticipates the ceremony to be held at the Dolby Theatre and broadcast live on ABC, reaching viewers across more than 200 territories worldwide.
O'Brien, known for his sharp wit and love of film, is no stranger to being in front of the camera. Over the years, he has hosted various high-profile events, including the Emmy Awards and the White House Correspondents' Dinner, showcasing his vast experience and comfort with live television. Notably, O'Brien is taking over the responsibilities from Jimmy Kimmel, who successfully hosted the Oscars for two consecutive years.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed excitement over O'Brien's appointment, stating, "We are thrilled and honored to have the incomparable Conan O'Brien host the Oscars this year. His brilliant humor, love of movies, and live TV expertise will make this year's show unforgettable." This sentiment sets high expectations for the comedic elements and engaging moments O'Brien will bring to the prestigious awards ceremony.
The 2025 Oscars will kick off with the traditional red carpet event starting at 6:30 p.m. ET, just half-an-hour before the official ceremony gets underway. Viewers can expect a dazzling display of fashion and celebrity appearances, as is customary for Hollywood's biggest night.
O’Brien's comedy career has spanned several decades and includes notable achievements, such as winning five Emmy Awards out of 31 nominations, which speaks volumes about his prowess and the respect he has garnered within the industry. Beyond television, he has built his brand, Team Coco, creating a diverse entertainment ecosystem, including his podcast "Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend," which has been well-received by audiences.
His humor has been described as devilishly quick and often self-deprecative, which can resonate well with various audiences. Following his reputation, O'Brien added humor to the announcement of his hosting gig, jokingly stating, "America demanded it, and now it's happening: Taco Bell's new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme.
While these comments showcase his comedic style, they also highlight O’Brien’s playful nature, indicative of what audiences might expect during the ceremony.
O’Brien joins the ranks of other legendary comedians who have hosted the Oscars, including Johnny Carson, Billy Crystal, and Whoopi Goldberg, noted for their comedic timing and ability to engage audiences. There's hope among fans and industry insiders alike for O’Brien to bring new flavors to the ceremony, distinguishing it from recent iterations.
This year’s Oscars promise to be not just about recognizing cinematic brilliance but also embracing the joy and artistry of film through comedic expression. With O'Brien at the helm, there is anticipation for memorable moments, thoughtful commentary, and perhaps some unexpected surprises.
With date circled on calendars around the globe, movie lovers, fans of comedy, and industry professionals will undoubtedly tune in to witness not only the recognition of cinematic achievements but to enjoy the unique brand of humor Conan O’Brien will bring to the Oscars stage. Who knows? With the blend of comedy and film, maybe even Taco Bell's new menu will find its place on the red carpet too!
