BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

In a highly anticipated announcement, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed that Conan O’Brien will host the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025. This marks O’Brien’s first time leading the prestigious ceremony, following in the footsteps of notable past hosts such as Billy Crystal, Whoopi Goldberg, and Jimmy Kimmel, who helmed the event for the previous two years.

O’Brien, a beloved figure in American entertainment, is best known for his late-night talk shows, including “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” “The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien,” and “Conan.”

His unique brand of humor and ability to connect with audiences have made him a staple in the comedy landscape for nearly three decades. Before his hosting career, he was a writer for iconic shows like “Saturday Night Live” and “The Simpsons,” showcasing his versatility and creativity in the industry.

The announcement was made on November 15, 2024, with O’Brien humorously stating, “America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars.” This playful quip reflects his signature comedic style and sets an upbeat tone for what audiences can expect from the upcoming ceremony.

The Oscars will be held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, broadcast live on ABC starting at 7 p.m. EST/4 p.m. PST. The event is expected to attract millions of viewers worldwide, as it celebrates the best in film from the past year. The red carpet pre-show will kick off at 6:30 p.m. EST/3:30 p.m. PST, allowing fans to catch a glimpse of their favorite stars as they arrive.

Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their excitement about O’Brien’s appointment, stating that he is “the perfect person to help lead our global celebration of film with his brilliant humor, his love of movies, and his live TV expertise.” Their confidence in O’Brien suggests that he will bring a fresh perspective to the ceremony while honoring its rich tradition.

O’Brien’s extensive experience in live television will be an asset as he navigates the complexities of hosting such a high-profile event. His previous roles as emcee for other major awards shows, including the Emmy Awards and the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, have equipped him with the skills necessary to engage a diverse audience while managing live broadcasts’ unpredictable nature.

As anticipation builds for the Oscars, fans are eager to see how O’Brien will blend his comedic flair with the ceremony’s formalities. His ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments has been a hallmark of his career; thus, many expect him to deliver a memorable evening that honors cinematic achievements while keeping viewers entertained.

In addition to his hosting duties, O’Brien continues to engage audiences through various platforms. He has hosted the podcast “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” since 2018 and recently starred in “Conan O’Brien Must Go,” showcasing his adaptability in an ever-evolving media landscape.

With Conan O’Brien at the helm of the 2025 Oscars, viewers can look forward to a night filled with laughter, celebration, and recognition of cinematic excellence. As Hollywood prepares for its biggest night of the year, all eyes will be on O’Brien to see how he brings his unique touch to this iconic event.

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo from TBS