Disney has confirmed that Conan O'Brien will return to host the Academy Awards for a third consecutive year in 2027, despite a significant drop in viewership for the most recent ceremony. The 63-year-old comedian hosted the 98th Oscars in March, drawing an A-list crowd that included Timothée Chalamet and Leonardo DiCaprio, but ABC reported only 17.86 million viewers — a 9% decline from 2025 and the lowest ratings since 2022.
Disney's Commitment to O'Brien
On Tuesday, Disney announced that O'Brien will once again take the stage for the 2027 Oscars. Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group, praised the host in a statement: "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." Producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, who are also returning for the fourth time, added: "Getting to reunite with Conan O'Brien for a third year at the Oscars is really special. He brings that signature humor everyone loves, along with a real warmth and generosity that carry through the entire show."
O'Brien's Hosting Style and Highlights
O'Brien first hosted the Oscars in 2025 and returned this year, where he made headlines by calling out Timothée Chalamet's "opera and ballet" jab controversy, leaving the actor squirming next to girlfriend Kylie Jenner. He also poked fun at Leonardo DiCaprio and Michael B. Jordan. Before the ceremony, O'Brien tested material at comedy clubs. Reflecting on his first hosting experience in 2025, he told ABC News it was a "15 on a scale of 1 to 10."
Viewership Decline and Future Changes
The 2026 Oscars saw a 9% drop to 17.86 million viewers, compared to 19.7 million in 2025. The ceremony has aired on ABC for decades, but in 2029 it will move exclusively to YouTube, where it will be livestreamed for free with commercials. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor stated: "This collaboration will leverage YouTube's vast reach and infuse the Oscars with innovative opportunities for engagement while honoring our legacy." YouTube CEO Neal Mohan called the Oscars "one of our essential cultural institutions."
Public Reaction and Venue Change
Viewers on social media expressed mixed reactions, with some calling for the Oscars to be cancelled. One user wrote: "Please cancel the oscars #Oscars," while another said: "Just cancel the Oscars at this point. Who cares." Others found the ceremony boring. Alongside the YouTube transition, the Oscars will move from the Dolby Theatre to the Peacock Theater in Downtown Los Angeles starting in 2029.
