Hey movie fans great news for those who love a good laugh with their Oscars! Conan O'Brien is officially returning to host the Academy Awards in 2026! After his well-received gig this year the Academy clearly wants more Conan's comedic touch to Hollywood's biggest night. Get ready for another dose of his signature humor and maybe some unexpected moments.
Oscars Viewership Soars with Conan: Academy Brings Him Back for 98th Ceremony After Ratings Success
It looks like Conan's hosting gig earlier this year was a hit because the viewership numbers were up! The recent Oscars ceremony with Conan at the helm actually drew the highest number of viewers in five years. Yep people tuned in and they engaged online too. The broadcast had a huge presence on social media even beating out the Grammys and the Super Bowl in online buzz. That's pretty impressive stuff.
The Academy and ABC are thrilled with the results. Disney Television Group president Craig Erwich praised Conan's performance as "unforgettable" and said he is the perfect choice to lead the show again. So it's official Conan is back for the 98th Oscars and everyone is hoping he can bring that magic again.
"I Want to Hear Adrien Brody Finish His Speech": Conan's Hilarious Reason for Oscars Return and Producer Team Confirmed
In true Conan style he released a statement with his trademark wit. He joked "The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech.” This is a nod to Adrien Brody's famously long acceptance speech back in the day and it is exactly the kind of self-deprecating humor we expect from Conan.
It's not just Conan returning either. The producing team of Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan who were behind the recent successful show are also coming back for a third year in a row. They will be joined by producers Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney. This team seems to have found a winning formula so it's great to see them all back together for the 98th Oscars.
Mark Your Calendars: The 98th Academy Awards Set for March 15 2026 - What to Expect?
So when can you catch Conan in action at the Oscars again? Mark your calendars for Sunday March 15 2026. That's the date for the 98th Academy Awards ceremony. It will be live on ABC from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood just like always.
While it is still a long way off it is fun to start thinking about what movies might be in the running for Best Picture and other awards. Variety mentioned a few potential contenders for the 2026 Oscars race already. These include:
- Wicked: For Good (musical sequel directed by Jon M. Chu)
- Hamnet (adaptation of the novel directed by Chloé Zhao)
- Frankenstein (directed by Guillermo del Toro starring Oscar Isaac)
- The Bride (Frankenstein-themed film directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal starring Jessie Buckley and Christian Bale)
Of course it's super early but these are some of the films already generating buzz as possible awards contenders. It looks like 2026 could be another exciting year for movies.
Conan's Oscars Hosting History and What Makes Him a Great Choice for Hollywood's Biggest Night
This will be Conan O'Brien's second time hosting the Oscars and many feel he is a perfect fit. He has decades of experience in television and comedy. He currently hosts the popular podcast "Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend" and the travel show "Conan O'Brien Must Go". He also has a new movie coming out called "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You." Conan is always busy and always funny.
People praised Conan's hosting earlier this year for striking the right balance of humor warmth and respect for the ceremony. He can deliver those sharp jokes but also celebrate the nominees and the global film community. He is a seasoned pro who knows how to keep a live show moving and entertain a huge audience. Plus his self-deprecating style always goes down well in Hollywood.
Get Ready for Oscars 2026: Conan Hosting Date Set and Early Movie Contenders to Watch For
So get ready folks Conan O'Brien is back to host the Oscars in 2026! Mark your calendars for March 15 2026 and get ready for another night of movie magic laughs and hopefully some memorable moments. With Conan at the helm and some promising films on the horizon the 98th Academy Awards are already shaping up to be a must-watch event. Start making your predictions now!