Conan O’Brien is all set to return as host of the Oscars in 2026, marking his second consecutive year at the helm of Hollywood’s biggest celebration. After snagging strong ratings and warm reviews for his inaugural run, O’Brien’s renewal by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences arrived shockingly early, signaling confidence in his comedic flair. Fans remember the veteran late-night host’s quick wit and offbeat humor that livened up the 97th ceremony just a few weeks ago.
The producers—Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney—are sticking around for another year, bolstered by the telecast’s five-year ratings high. This continuity is a welcome change for a job that’s often dubbed a thankless, nerve-racking task. O’Brien, however, clearly isn’t fazed by the pressure. He even joked in a statement that he wants to return just to hear Adrien Brody finish his five-minute acceptance speech, showing that O’Brien’s signature self-deprecating humor remains as sharp as ever.
On the Academy’s side, executives Bill Kramer and Janet Yang praised O’Brien for bringing “humor, warmth, and reverence” to the Oscars stage. They’re betting that fans will tune in for another dose of his dry wit and unpredictable antics. With so many eyes on one of film’s most time-honored events, the Academy’s earliest renewal in years seems a clever move, promising viewers—and the industry—a comfortable, comedic presence as they gear up for another dazzling awards season.
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