Conan O’Brien’s time as host of the Oscars is turning into a trilogy. The Emmy-winning comedian will return to host the 99th Academy Awards in 2027, Academy officials said Tuesday.O’Brien hosted the last two Oscar ceremonies to positive reviews. Earlier this year, in his opening monologue, he said he was “honoured to be the last human host. Oscar Awards … Next year it’s going to be a Waymo in a tuxedo.”He will be surrounded by a familiar cast, with Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan returning as executive producers of the show.Bill Kramer and Lynette Howell Taylor, presidents of the film academy, said in a joint statement: “They are an incredible team and have produced a fascinating, funny and heartfelt show over the past two years,” adding that “Conan will lead the celebration brilliantly with his brilliance and humor.”After several years of ratings gains, including a post-pandemic surge of 19.7 million viewers who tuned in O’Brien’s debut year as host, when “Anora” swept the awards, the show slumped this year when “One Battle After Another” was named best picture. Commitment the Oscars it rose by other measures, however. Social media engagement is up over 42% this year.“Conan has created a remarkable energy around the ‘Oscars,'” Disney Television Group president Craig Erwich said in a statement. “His unique comedic voice makes Hollywood’s biggest night one of the funniest celebrations of the year. We’re proud to welcome him back and look forward to what he and the production team will deliver.”The 99th Academy Awards will be broadcast live on ABC from the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 14, 2027. It will be the penultimate event in Hollywood and on broadcast television. In 2029, the show moved to YouTube and downtown Los Angeles for its 101st awards.
