Conan O’Brien Takes the Stage as Host of the 97th Annual Academy Awards

The 97th annual Academy Awards is set to captivate audiences tonight, March 10, 2025, as the entertainment world gathers to celebrate cinematic excellence. This year, the charismatic and beloved TV personality Conan O’Brien steps into the spotlight as the host of the Oscars, marking a new chapter in the long-standing tradition of the event. The ceremony, broadcast on ABC from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, will commence at 7 p.m. ET (4 p.m. PT). Conan’s appointment as host comes after Jimmy Kimmel, who previously helmed the ceremony four times, handed over the reins. In his signature witty style, Conan quipped, "America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars."

Who Is Conan O’Brien?

For decades, Conan O’Brien has been a staple in the world of late-night television, best known for his work on Late Night with Conan O’Brien, The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien, and Conan. At 61, he has spent nearly 30 years as a late-night host, earning the title of the "longest-working current late-night talk show host" in the U.S. after David Letterman’s retirement in 2015. Conan’s journey in the entertainment industry began behind the scenes, where he served as a writer for iconic shows like Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons. His versatility and sharp wit have made him a household name, and now, he brings his unique energy to the Oscars stage for the first time.

A Legacy of Oscar Hosts: Conan Joins an Iconic Lineup

Conan O’Brien is not the first comedian to take on the prestigious role of Oscar host, but he joins an illustrious list of comedy legends who have graced the stage over the years. Some of the most memorable hosts include Johnny Carson, Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg, Chris Rock, Jon Stewart, Hugh Jackman, and Neil Patrick Harris. Craig Erwich, president of the Disney Television Group, praised Conan’s appointment, saying, "He joins an iconic roster of comedy greats who have served in this role, and we are so lucky to have him center stage for the Oscars." Conan’s experience in hosting high-profile events, including the Emmys in 2002 and 2006, prepares him well for the grandeur of the Oscars.

The Evolution of Oscar Hosting: Triumphs and Trials

Hosting the Oscars is no easy feat, and the role has seen its fair share of triumphs and missteps over the years. Jimmy Kimmel, Whoopi Goldberg, and Jack Lemmon have each hosted the ceremony four times, while Jerry Lewis and David Niven have done so on three occasions. Johnny Carson hosted five times, and Billy Crystal holds the record for the most appearances, having hosted nine times, with his final stint in 2012. Bob Hope, however, remains the ultimate Oscar host, having emceed the event an incredible 19 times. Ellen DeGeneres, during her second hosting stint in 2014, made history when her star-studded selfie became the most retweeted post of all time, featuring A-listers like Bradley Cooper, Brad Pitt, and Meryl Streep.

Not every hosting choice, however, has been met with acclaim. In 2012, Anne Hathaway and James Franco’s co-hosting stint was widely criticized as awkward and forced, seen as an attempt to draw younger viewers. More recently, in 2019, Kevin Hart’s planned hosting gig became mired in controversy, leading to his withdrawal and the Academy’s decision to proceed without an official host for the first time in 30 years. The absence of a host continued until 2022, when Regina Hall, Amy Schumer, and Wanda Sykes co-hosted the ceremony. That show, however, was overshadowed by the infamous incident where Will Smith slapped Chris Rock over a joke about Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith.

Conan O’Brien: A Breath of Fresh Air for the Oscars

As Conan O’Brien takes on the challenge of hosting the Oscars, his infectious enthusiasm and comedic prowess promise to bring a fresh dynamic to the ceremony. With a career spanning late-night television, writing, and even animation (The Flaming C), Conan has proven his ability to engage audiences across multiple platforms. His selection as host reflects the Academy’s efforts to balance tradition with modernity, appealing to both long-time Oscar enthusiasts and younger viewers. For Conan, this opportunity not only cements his status as a comedy legend but also offers him a chance to leave his mark on one of Hollywood’s most beloved events.

The Oscars: A Celebration of Cinema and Culture

The Academy Awards serve as a celebration of artistic achievement, honoring the hard work and creativity of filmmakers, actors, and artisans from around the world. As the entertainment industry continues to evolve, the Oscars remain a cornerstone of Hollywood culture, bridging the past and the present. With Conan O’Brien at the helm, this year’s ceremony promises to be a memorable blend of humor, heart, and homage to the magic of cinema. Tune in to the 97th annual Academy Awards tonight on ABC to witness the glitz, glamour, and excitement as the 2025 nominees compete for the ultimate recognition in film.