Conan O’Brien Returns to Host the Oscars in 2026: A Look at His Anticipated Comeback

Conan O’Brien is set to grace the Oscars stage once again in 2026, and fans are eagerly anticipating his return. The 61-year-old comedian and television host made his Oscars hosting debut earlier this year, and his performance was met with rave reviews. The Academy and ABC announced on Monday, March 17, that O’Brien would be returning to host the prestigious event for the second year in a row. This decision comes after a highly successful 2025 Oscars ceremony, which not only showcased O’Brien’s unique comedic style but also drew in a massive audience, making it the most-watched entertainment awards show of the year.

A Joke with a Purpose: Conan’s Adrien Brody Reference

Conan O’Brien’s announcement to host the Oscars in 2026 came with a humorous twist. In a statement released on March 17, O’Brien jokingly revealed that his primary motivation for returning as host was to hear Adrien Brody finish his acceptance speech. This cheeky comment was a direct reference to an incident that occurred earlier this month during the 2025 Oscars. Adrien Brody, who won the Best Actor award for his role in The Brutalist, was played off by the orchestra while delivering his acceptance speech. However, Brody, determined to complete his remarks, politely asked the music to stop, allowing him to finish. O’Brien’s lighthearted jab at the situation highlights his ability to find humor in even the most awkward moments, a trait that has endeared him to audiences and critics alike.

The Academy’s Praise for Conan’s Hosting Prowess

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and ABC were quick to express their enthusiasm for O’Brien’s return. Craig Erwich, President of Disney Television Group, praised O’Brien’s unique comedic style, stating that it "perfectly captured the moment" of the 2025 Oscars. Erwich went on to express his excitement for O’Brien’s return, noting that his talents would once again bring an "indelible performance" to the stage. Similarly, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang released a joint statement, commending O’Brien for his role in creating a "hugely entertaining and visually stunning" show. They highlighted his ability to guide the evening with "humor, warmth, and reverence," making him the perfect host for the global film community.

A Successful Debut and Its Impact

Conan O’Brien’s hosting debut at the 2025 Oscars was nothing short of a triumph. The live broadcast attracted an impressive 19.7 million viewers, making it the most-watched entertainment awards show of the year. This success can be attributed not only to the excitement surrounding the nominees but also to O’Brien’s engaging and witty performance. His ability to balance humor with respect for the occasion resonated well with both the audience in the Dolby Theatre and those watching from home. This achievement underscores the growing relevance of the Oscars in today’s entertainment landscape and serves as a testament to the impact of a well-crafted and charismatic hosting performance.

Behind the Scenes: Jokes That Didn’t Make the Cut

Following his successful hosting stint, O’Brien shared some interesting insights into the preparation process for his opening monologue. During an episode of his podcast Conan Needs a Friend on March 13, O’Brien revealed that several jokes were cut from his original script, including one that involved a rather unconventional use of the iconic Oscar statuette. He recalled a bit where he imagined the statuette casually lying on a couch, with him vacuuming around it and humorously asking it to "lift your feet" or "help load the dishwasher." However, this joke was ultimately deemed off-limits by the Academy, as there are strict rules governing the representation of the statuette. O’Brien humorously compared these rules to religious iconography, highlighting the reverence with which the Academy treats its symbol.

The Significance of Conan’s Return

Conan O’Brien’s return to host the Oscars in 2026 signals a promising continuation of the event’s resurgence in popularity. His unique blend of humor, charm, and respect for the ceremony makes him an ideal fit for the role. As the film industry continues to evolve, the Oscars remain a celebration of artistic excellence and global unity. With O’Brien at the helm, audiences can expect another memorable and entertaining night that honors the best in cinema. His return is not just a nod to his personal success but also a reflection of the Academy’s commitment to delivering a show that resonates with both the film community and the wider audience.