After receiving many positive reviews and attracting 19.69 million total viewers for this year’s Oscars, Conan O’Brien is set to return as host for the 2026 Oscars. In a statement about his return, O’Brien joked, “The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech.”, referencing Adrien Brody’s speech at this year’s Oscars when he won Best Actor for The Brutalist, which became the longest speech in Oscars history at five minutes and 36 seconds.
Executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mulligan, who have served as executive producers for the last two Oscars telecasts, are also returning for next year’s Oscars. “We are both so honored to be returning in our roles for the 98th Oscars. We can’t wait to work with Conan and his entire team as we continue to explore even more special and heartfelt opportunities to celebrate next year’s nominees and the impact of film around the world”, says Kapoor and Mulligan in a statement. Producers Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney will also be returning.
“We are thrilled to bring back Conan, Raj, Katy, Jeff, and Mike for the 98th Oscars”, says the Academy of Motion Pictures and Sciences CEO Bill Kramer and Outcoming 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.”
Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group, added to Kramer and Yang’s statement with his own statement about O’Brien’s return. “Conan delivered an unforgettable performance at the Oscars, and we’re honored to have him and the producing team back next year.” Erwich continued, “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.
The 98th Annual Academy Awards will be held on March 15th, 2026.
