Conan O’Brien will return as host of the Oscars.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Monday that the Emmy Award-winning television host, writer, producer and comedian will host the ceremony in 2026.
“The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” O’Brien jokingly said in a statement.
“Conan delivered an unforgettable performance at ‘The Oscars,’ and we’re honored to have him and the producing team back next year,” said Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group. “Conan’s unique comedic style perfectly captured the moment, and I’m excited to have his talents back onstage next year to helm another indelible performance.”
Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan will return as the show’s executive producers for the third consecutive year. Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney will return as producers for a second time, and Sweeney will also serve as a writer.
“We are thrilled to bring back Conan, Raj, Katy, Jeff and Mike for the 98th Oscars!” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang. “This year, they produced a hugely entertaining and visually stunning show that celebrated our nominees and the global film community in the most beautiful and impactful way. Conan was the perfect host – skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth and reverence. It is an honor to be working with them again.”
O’Brien first hosted the 2025 Oscars on March 2. It reached a five-year high in total viewers, 19.69 million, and adults 18-49 and ranked as the number one primetime entertainment telecast in both total viewers and adults for the 2024-2025 season.
The 98th Oscars will be held on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood and will be televised live on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide.
