The Academy Awards have long struggled to find a host who can strike the right balance between humor, prestige, and audience engagement. Over the past decade, hosting the Oscars has become one of the most scrutinized roles in entertainment, with hosts facing criticism from all sides.
Now, as the 97th Academy Awards approach, the choice of Conan O’Brien as the 2025 Oscars host brings a renewed debate: Is he the right person to revitalize the ceremony, or will he face the same challenges as his predecessors?
The Oscars’ Hosting Problem
The Oscars host plays a crucial role in setting the tone for the evening, but in recent years, the Academy has struggled to find a winning formula. The controversy surrounding Kevin Hart’s withdrawal in 2019 led to the show going hostless for multiple years, with mixed results. Some ceremonies were seen as streamlined and efficient, while others felt lacking in personality.
When the Academy brought back hosts, the reception remained inconsistent. From Ricky Gervais’ razor-sharp humor at the Golden Globes to Jimmy Kimmel’s attempts at balancing wit and warmth, no one has quite managed to please both critics and audiences alike.
The challenge lies in navigating the ever-evolving cultural landscape. In the age of social media, a single joke can spark a firestorm, making the role even riskier. The Academy needs someone who can be funny without alienating audiences, respectful without being dull and engaging without stealing the spotlight from the nominees.
Why Conan O’Brien Might Be the Right Choice
Conan O’Brien is no stranger to the pressures of live television. With a career spanning decades in late-night comedy, he brings experience, intelligence, and self-deprecating humor that could be well-suited for the Oscars. His ability to deliver sharp, witty monologues while maintaining a sense of warmth and approachability makes him a strong candidate for the role.
Unlike some past hosts, O’Brien also has an established reputation for respecting the entertainment industry while still being able to poke fun at its absurdities. His comedy often leans into playful satire rather than mean-spirited jabs, which could help him avoid some of the pitfalls that have plagued other hosts. Additionally, his appeal spans multiple generations, making him a safe yet potentially refreshing choice.
Conan O’Brien’s Take on Hosting the Oscars
In a recent interview with ABC News’ Chris Connelly on Good Morning America, O’Brien shared his thoughts on hosting Hollywood’s biggest night. With his signature humor, he teased that “anything is possible” for his first time as an Oscars host, even joking about audience polls rejecting the idea of him singing and dancing—an idea he might just embrace anyway.
O’Brien also mentioned that he’s keeping in mind recent tragic events in Los Angeles, including the wildfires that devastated parts of Southern California. His longtime assistant lost her home in the fires, and he acknowledged that the disaster affected people across all income levels. This suggests that his hosting style may balance humor with moments of genuine acknowledgment for the broader community.
In classic O’Brien fashion, he also joked about staging fake viral moments, quipping, “I’m paying people to create moments … I’m giving Tom Hanks $300 in the parking lot.” Whether his self-aware approach will land well remains to be seen, but it’s clear that he’s planning an unpredictable and memorable night. (ABC News, 2025)
The High Stakes of Hosting the Oscars
While O’Brien has the comedic chops to handle the night, the pressure remains immense. Hosting the Oscars is a balancing act: the host must entertain the audience without overshadowing the winners, keep the pacing tight while maintaining excitement, and deliver humor that lands well across a global viewership.
One key challenge for O’Brien will be keeping the ceremony engaging in an era where award shows struggle with declining viewership. With streaming services reshaping how audiences consume content, the Oscars need a host who can make the event feel relevant and must-watch. O’Brien’s internet-savvy humor and history of viral moments may be an asset in this regard.
A Hit or a Miss?
Conan O’Brien’s selection as the 2025 Oscars host suggests a return to a traditional, experienced comedian-led format. His success will depend on whether he can blend his signature style with the gravitas the Oscars demand. Will he finally be the host to crack the code, or will the Academy be back at square one in 2026?
One thing is certain: all eyes will be on O’Brien come Oscar night, and his performance will shape the conversation around the future of hosting the prestigious event. The 2025 Oscars will take place at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on March 2 and will be streamed live on Hulu for the first time. (ABC News, 2025)
For more updates and in-depth coverage of the 2025 Academy Awards, stay tuned to Screen Dollars.