Conan O'Brien Returns as Host for the 98th Oscars in 2026!

Written by Published

Get ready for another round of late-night wit and razor-sharp humor at the Oscars! The Academy has officially announced that former Late Night host Conan O'Brien will be returning as the host for the 98th Academy Awards in 2026. If his previous performance was anything to go by, expect an evening filled with laughter, charm, and a bit of unpredictable fun.

The big night is scheduled for March 15, 2026, and fans are already buzzing with excitement. This marks O'Brien's second time taking the reins of Hollywood's most prestigious event, and given his track record, it's no surprise the Academy decided to bring him back. Disney Television Group president Craig Erwich praised O'Brien’s previous hosting stint, calling it "unforgettable."

“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 for another indelible performance,” Erwich said in an official statement.

O'Brien himself had his own signature comedic take on his return to the Oscars stage. “The only reason I'm hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” he joked. For those who don’t remember, Brody made history by breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest acceptance speech, talking for over five minutes.

The Academy made the announcement with a playful nod to St. Patrick’s Day, posting an image on social media of O'Brien holding an Oscar against a dark green background. The caption read, "Forget the pot of gold — this St. Patrick's Day, we're giving you something even better." Naturally, they tagged the comedian, making the announcement even more official (and entertaining).

Bill Kramer and Janet Yank, the Academy’s CEO and president, respectively, were also full of praise for O'Brien, calling him “the perfect host.” They commended him for skillfully leading the audience through the event with a blend of humor, warmth, and reverence. Clearly, his ability to balance comedy with the significance of the night made a lasting impression.

Alongside O'Brien, the Academy Awards will also see the return of its powerhouse production team. Executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, along with Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney, will be back to ensure the event runs smoothly and, of course, remains highly entertaining. With this talented lineup in place, the 98th Oscars are shaping up to be another must-watch event.

Conan O'Brien has long been a fan favorite, known for his quick wit, self-deprecating humor, and deep appreciation for pop culture. Over the years, he’s left audiences in stitches with his unique comedic style, making him a natural fit for an event as grand as the Academy Awards. His return to the Oscar stage is a testament to his talent and the undeniable impact he’s had on the entertainment industry.

So, mark your calendars and get ready for a night filled with Hollywood glamour, heartfelt speeches, and, of course, plenty of Conan-style comedy. Whether he’s cracking jokes about the nominees, poking fun at the industry, or just enjoying the chaos of live television, one thing’s for sure—this is an Oscars you won’t want to miss!