Conan O’Brien will return as the host of the 2026 Academy Awards

Conan O'Brien is back, and he's definitely excited about it.

By Joe Allen Published March 17, 2025

Conan OBrien next to an Oscars statue — Disney

Just weeks after the 2025 Academy Awards, which saw an uptick in ratings and rave reviews for Conan O’Brien’s stint as host, the Academy has announced that O’Brien will be back for the 2026 ceremony. The Academy also revealed that the awards would take air Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ABC.

“The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” said O’Brien in a press statement, referring to Brody’s record-setting acceptance speech after winning Best Actor at this year’s ceremony.

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O’Brien drew positive reviews in large part because he struck the right balance between celebrating the nominated films and poking fun at both Hollywood and himself. He also nailed an emotional tribute to firefighters following the Los Angeles wildfires and managed to do an opening monologue that was the right amount of chaotic.

Executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan will also return for the third year in a row, along with producers Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney, who are back for the second straight year.

“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 in a statement. “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.”

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Joe Allen is a freelance culture writer based in upstate New York. His work has been published in The Washington Post, The…

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