Conan O’Brien announced as Oscars host, Internet relieved to have someone 'actually funny'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Emmy-winning comedian and former late-night show host Conan O'Brien, 61, will take on the role of hosting the 97th annual Academy Awards on March 2, 2025.

This marks O'Brien's first time as host, following two consecutive years with Jimmy Kimmel as emcee.

Academy 'thrilled' and 'honored' over Conan O’Brien's Oscar hosting gig

The Academy revealed Conan O’Brien as their choice for the highly anticipated event, marking a new chapter in the Oscars' legacy with his signature comedic style.

“We are thrilled and honored to have the incomparable Conan O’Brien host the Oscars this year,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang in a joint statement.

“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. His remarkable ability to connect with audiences will bring viewers together to do what the Oscars do best — honor the spectacular films and filmmakers of this year,” they added, per Variety.

O’Brien reacted humorously to the announcement, saying, “America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.”

In July, People confirmed that Kimmel had declined to return as host for what would have been his fifth time.

Additionally, John Mulaney and stars such as Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, Will Ferrell, Amy Poehler, and Dwayne Johnson were approached but they reportedly declined as well.

Craig Erwich calls Conan O’Brien a 'preeminent comedic voice'

Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group, highlighted Conan O’Brien's qualifications.

“Conan is a preeminent comedic voice, whose decades-long success is marked by his distinctive humor and perspective,” Erwich stated.

He continued by saying O’Brien "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.”

In a humorous promotional video shared by the Academy on X (formerly Twitter), O’Brien feigned excitement about receiving an Oscar trophy, only to be corrected by an unseen person.

“This is incredible. I have been handed an Oscar. I’m an Oscar winner,” O’Brien joked before being informed, “No, you’re the host.”

Even after learning he wasn’t keeping the trophy, O’Brien quipped, “I’m hosting the Oscars. Okay, yeah,” and turned to the camera, saying, “Hosting, check it out. March 2nd.”

Fans celebrate Conan O’Brien’s Oscars hosting news

Social media users welcomed the announcement, sharing their excitement on X over Conan O’Brien’s Oscars hosting news.

“Love it!!! Finally someone who is actually funny,” wrote one. Another said, “Excellent choice. I’m so in.”

Others praised O’Brien’s long-overdue selection. “I’VE BEEN SAYING HES NEEDED TO HOST FOR YEARS,” one user exclaimed.

“Overdue!!! Conan is the GOAT!!!” another added.

The 97th annual Oscars will air live on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 7 pm ET/4 pm PT on ABC from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.

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