The Oscarsare sticking withConan O’Brienfor a second time. This week,Academy of Motion Picture Arts and SciencesCEOBill Kramerand PresidentJanet Yangannounced that they have selected the comedian and writer to return and host the event for a second time in 2026. The news comes just two weeks after the event aired and broke records: it scored the highest audience numbers in five years, with almost 20 million viewers tuning in.Anorawas the big winner of the night, taking home theBest Pictureprize.
One of the reasons why O’Brien’shosting gig was appreciatedwas because the comedian wasn’t afraid to get silly at times, avoided getting on anyone’s toes — exceptKarla Sofia Gascón’s (Emilia Perez) — and mostly strayed away from politics. The ceremony itself also featured some pretty good moments that playfully celebrated themovies nominated, including the piano-playing sandworm fromDune: Part 2and firefighters roasting nominees. Along with O’Brien,The Academyis also bringing back for 2026 executive producersRaj KapoorandKaty Mullan, as well as producersJeff RossandMike Sweeney.
In an official statement, Kramer and Yang celebrated the decision and praised the whole team’s work:
“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.”
O’Brien Addresses Invitation To Host 2026 Oscars
O’Brien himself stated jokingly that he only agreed to host the Oscars a second time because he wants “to hearAdrien Brodyfinish his speech.”The Best Actor winnerforThe Brutalistmade Oscar history by delivering the ceremony’slongest acceptance speechever, which lasted almost six minutes. Brody refused to be played out by the orchestra, and made them stop playing so he could continue to speak.
DisneyTelevision Group presidentCraig Erwichcalled O’Brien’s hosting gig “unforgettable,” and stated that the host’s “unique comedic style perfectly captured the moment.” It was also afun and emotional nightfor the nominees: this year, the producers chose to go back to the “it’s an honor to be nominated” approach by having close friends and admirers of the nominees go on stage and talk a bit about each of them.
