Conan O'Brien's tenure as Oscars host is set to become a trilogy. The Emmy-winning comedian will return to host the 99th Academy Awards in 2027, as announced by film academy leaders on Tuesday. O'Brien has hosted the last two Oscar ceremonies to positive reviews. Earlier this year, during his opening monologue, he joked, "I was honored to be the last human host of the Academy Awards... Next year it's going to be a Waymo in a tux."
Production Team Returns
O'Brien will be joined by a familiar team, with Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan returning as executive producers. Film academy leaders Bill Kramer and Lynette Howell Taylor said in a joint statement, "They are an incredible team and have produced such captivating, entertaining and heartfelt shows over the last two years." They added that they look forward to "Conan superbly leading the celebration with his brilliance and humor."
Viewership Trends
After several years of ratings increases, including a post-pandemic high of 19.7 million viewers for O'Brien's inaugural year when "Anora" swept the awards, the show experienced a dip in viewership this year when "One Battle After Another" won best picture. However, engagement rose by other metrics, with social media interaction during the broadcast increasing by over 42% this year.
Craig Erwich, president of Disney's Television Group, commented, "Conan has created remarkable energy around 'The Oscars.' His singular comedic voice makes Hollywood's biggest night one of the most entertaining celebrations of the year. We're proud to welcome him back and look forward to what he and the producing team deliver next."
Broadcast Details
The 99th Oscars will be broadcast live on ABC from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 14, 2027. This will be the penultimate ceremony at the Hollywood location and on broadcast television. In 2029, the show will move to YouTube and downtown Los Angeles for its 101st awards.
