Conan O’Brien’s standout performance at this year’s Oscars left such a strong impression on both the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and Disney that he has been formally invited back to host next year’s ceremony.
The comedian will once again take the stage as host of the 98th Academy Awards, which will air live on ABC on Sunday, March 15, 2026, the Academy and network announced Monday.
Returning Producers and Creative Team
Producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan will also be back for their third consecutive year, joined by O’Brien’s longtime collaborators Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney. Ross and Sweeney will produce for the second time, with Sweeney also contributing as a writer.
The decision to bring O’Brien back doesn’t come as a surprise. His blend of sharp wit and playful humor resonated well with audiences and critics alike.
Rob Mills, EVP of Unscripted & Alternative Entertainment at Walt Disney Television, expressed enthusiasm about O’Brien’s return shortly after this year’s March 2 ceremony, calling it a “privilege” to collaborate with him and describing the experience as “TV executive fantasy camp.”
O’Brien’s Signature Humor
O’Brien reacted to the announcement with his usual comedic flair, quipping in the official release:
“The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech.”
Oscars Ratings on the Rise
This year’s broadcast was a ratings success, drawing 19.69 million viewers, up from 18.07 million last year. The increase was partly attributed to the ceremony’s debut on Hulu, though some viewers encountered streaming issues during the event.
Future TV Rights for the Oscars
As O’Brien prepares to return, the Academy is already looking ahead to the 2029 Oscars, actively exploring new TV rights deals with other broadcasters and streaming platforms after Disney’s exclusive negotiating window expired.
Conan Hosting Oscars
A Legacy of Returning Hosts
It’s not uncommon for the Oscars to bring back a successful host. Jimmy Kimmel hosted consecutive ceremonies in 2023-2024 and 2017-2018.
Billy Crystal helmed the show four years in a row (1990-1993) before returning in 1997 and 1998.
Johnny Carson hosted four consecutive ceremonies from 1979-1982, while the legendary Bob Hope holds the record for the most back-to-back Oscars hosting gigs, including four consecutive years from 1940-1943, another three from 1960-1962, and four more from 1965-1968.
Academy and Disney Executives Praise O’Brien’s Return
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang shared their excitement about the returning team, stating:
“We are thrilled to bring back Conan, Raj, Katy, Jeff, and Mike for the 98th Oscars. 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.”
Producers Kapoor and Mullan also expressed their enthusiasm, saying:
“We are both so honored to be returning in our roles for the 98th Oscars. We can’t wait to work with Conan and his entire team as we continue to explore even more special and heartfelt opportunities to celebrate next year’s nominees and the impact of film around the world.”
Craig Erwich, President of Disney Television Group, echoed their sentiments:
“Conan delivered an unforgettable performance at The Oscars, and we’re honored to have him and the producing team back next year. 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.”
With a strong creative team in place and growing anticipation, the 98th Academy Awards is shaping up to be another must-watch event for film lovers around the world.
