Academy Announces Conan O’Brien’s Return as Host for 98th Oscars
Comedian and TV personality Conan O’Brien will return to host the 98th Oscars on March 15, 2026, after successfully hosting the previous year’s event, which was a ratings and social media phenomenon. The 2025 Oscars telecast, led by O’Brien, captured the largest audience in five years, with 19.69 million viewers and a strong rating of 4.54 among the coveted 18-49 demographic. The event also notably outperformed other major broadcasts, including the Grammys and even the Super Bowl, amassing 104.2 million social interactions.
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Get Started NowExecutive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, along with producers Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney, are also returning, signaling continuity and confidence from the Academy. In their announcement, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and outgoing president Janet Yang praised O’Brien’s exceptional hosting, emphasizing his blend of humor, warmth, and respect for the filmmaking community. Craig Erwich of Disney Television Group echoed these sentiments, noting O’Brien’s comedic approach as ideal for capturing audience attention and engagement.
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O’Brien himself humorously quipped, “The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” highlighting his trademark humor.
The decision to invite O’Brien back signifies the Academy’s strategic shift towards hosts who resonate deeply with both television viewers and the digital audience. Conan’s robust online presence and proven ability to drive audience interaction are key factors in enhancing the Oscars’ cultural relevance and appeal to newer generations.
