This is the first time O’Brien will serve as host, after two consecutive years with Jimmy Kimmel as master of ceremonies.
Emmy-winning comedian, writer, producer and former late-night host, Conan O’Brienhas been chosen to present the 97th Academy Awardsas announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
This is the first time O’Brien will serve as host, after two consecutive years with Jimmy Kimmel as master of ceremonies. The ceremony also comes from winning an Emmy for best variety special (live), in a ceremony that had more than 20 million viewers.
True to form, O’Brien responded to the announcement with humor. “America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars”said.
“We are delighted and honored to have the incomparable Conan O’Brien as host of the Oscars this year,” Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang said in a joint statement. “He is the perfect person to help lead our global celebration of cinema with his brilliant humor, love of movies and experience in live television. “His remarkable ability to connect with audiences will unite viewers to do what the Oscars do best: honor this year’s spectacular films and filmmakers.”
Who is Conan O’Brien?
O’Brien is best known for his two decades of experience as a late-night talk show host, including shows like “Late Night With Conan O’Brien”, “The Tonight Show With Conan O’Brien” and “Conan”. Before his rise in late-night television, he built a career as a screenwriter for “Saturday Night Live” from NBC and “The Simpsons” from Fox. He currently hosts the popular podcast ““Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend” and recently starred in the travel show “Conan O’Brien Must Go”which had a stint in Argentina. Over the course of his career, O’Brien has been nominated for 31 Emmy Awards, of which he won five.
The Oscars will take place at Ovation Hollywood’s Dolby Theater and will be broadcast live to more than 200 territories around the world.
This year’s slate of films is expected to include a wide range of contenders, including Sean Baker’s comedy-drama “Anora,” Jon M. Chu’s musical “Wicked” and Ridley Scott’s epic sequel “Gladiator II.” .
Source: Ambito
