Conan O’Brien Returns to Host the Oscars: Is Hollywood Shifting Gears?

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The Academy has officially confirmed that Conan O’Brien will be back as the host for the Oscars next year. Given his popular performance in 2025, it seems the industry is looking to reignite connections with viewers by focusing more on entertainment and less on contentious issues.

A Possible Shift in the Right Direction

Conan O’Brien’s appointment as host indicates a significant shift from past hosting decisions, given the recent trend of Oscar ceremonies being criticized for their heavy emphasis on social and political commentary, which has led to decreasing viewership over the years. However, Conan O’Brien is renowned for his quick humor and versatility in appealing to a wide range of viewers without alienating them. This choice suggests an attempt to make the event more inclusive and centered around the glamour of cinema, rather than getting embroiled in external discussions.

As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, O’Brien’s wit and extensive TV background make him an excellent fit to breathe new life into the broadcast. The Academy’s quick decision to have him return so soon after his 2025 hosting stint suggests they were satisfied with his performance and the resulting audience numbers. Preliminary signs indicate that his involvement could be a wise move.

Indeed, it’s worth noting that according to AdWeek, the Oscars in 2025 recorded a five-year peak in audience viewership. A total of 19.69 million viewers tuned in, along with a rating of 4.54 among adults between eighteen and forty-nine years old. Furthermore, the show garnered over 104 million social media interactions, surpassing both the Grammys and the Super Bowl in this regard, as stated by the Academy.

The Oscars’ New (and Permanent?) Host

There’s a strong chance that Conan O’Brien’s comeback could be more than a one-off appearance. Historically, events like the Oscars have often relied on regular hosts, such as Billy Crystal, whose association became closely linked with the event’s most successful periods. Conan O’Brien being chosen as host for the 2026 Oscars (to be held on March 8, 2026) makes one wonder if the Academy is aiming to instill a more consistent hosting approach, following years of frequent host changes or even no hosts at all.

Entertainment Weekly pointed out that O’Brien’s mix of self-deprecating humor and affection for classic Hollywood might assist in connecting established celebrities with their disengaged fanbase. His talent for mocking the industry while appreciating it could make him a key figure in reviving excitement for the Academy Awards.

What This Could Mean for the Future of the Oscars

Although nothing is definitively set after 2026, O’Brien’s potential comeback implies that the Academy might be experimenting with a novel approach – one that could potentially boost and enhance the ratings for the Oscars. If his hosting maintains its appeal to viewers, it might lead to him becoming a recurring element of the event, similar to the iconic hosts from the past.

Amidst Hollywood’s efforts to restore its bond with the general public, selecting Conan O’Brien as the potential host for next year could signify an effort to go back to the basics of entertainment. However, whether or not the Academy will fully embrace this change is yet unclear. What is certain though, is that one aspect of it is undeniable.

The 2026 Oscars will be a goldmine for reactionary content.

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2025-04-04 23:55