Oscars 2026: Conan O’Brien To Return As Host For The 98th Academy Awards

Comedian, writer and producer Conan O’Brien, who received rave reviews for hosting the 97th Oscars, is all set to return as host for the 2nd consecutive year. O’Brien will be hosting Oscars 2026, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Monday, March 17.

Sharing the news on social media, The Academy wrote, ''Forget the pot of gold—this St. Patrick’s Day, we’re giving you something even better. Conan O’Brien is officially returning to host the 98th Oscars!(sic)''.

As per a report in The Hollywood Reporter, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and outcoming president Janet Yang said in a joined statement, “We are thrilled to bring back Conan, Raj, Katy, Jeff and Mike for the 98th Oscars'' and added, “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.”

Conan said, “The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech.”

For the unversed, Brody’s best actor speech for The Brutalist is the longest in the Oscars' history.

Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group added, ''Conan delivered an unforgettable performance at the Oscars, and 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 next year to helm another indelible performance,'' he further said.

Along with O’Brien, Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan are returning as executive producers for the third consecutive year. Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney are returning as producers.

The 98th Academy Awards will be aired live on ABC on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.