After several stints by Jimmy Kimmel, the Oscars are set for a major shakeup in 2025. Conan O’Brien, a veteran late-night host known for his sharp wit and charismatic stage presence, has been announced as the new master of ceremonies for the 97th Academy Awards. This decision was shared by the Academy with a touch of humor typical of O’Brien’s style, promising a refreshing change for the prestigious event.
The End of an Era: Jimmy Kimmel Steps Down
Jimmy Kimmel’s departure from the Oscars stage marks the end of an era filled with memorable moments and, admittedly, a few controversial ones. Despite his efforts, his recent performances have drawn criticism for being lackluster, with some viewers finding his humor outdated. The 2024 Oscars particularly highlighted this sentiment when Kimmel’s extended monologue received mixed reviews, prompting discussions about the need for a new direction in hosting the event.
Fans React to the Transition
Social media responses to the announcement of Conan O’Brien taking over have been overwhelmingly positive. Fans have expressed excitement for O’Brien’s return to a major award show stage since he last hosted the Emmys in 2006. Comments like:
Finally someone who is actually funny.
This should’ve happened since Conan hosted the Emmys in 06. This will be a must-watch for me.
Enthusiastic endorsements of O’Brien’s comedic style indicate high expectations and a rejuvenated interest in next year’s ceremony.
Conan O’Brien: A Beloved Figure in Entertainment
Conan O’Brien is no stranger to the limelight, having cultivated a loyal following with his unique blend of humor that combines intelligence with quirkiness. His ability to engage with his audience and guests has made him a favorite not just on television, but also in the world of live shows. His approach to humor, which often includes self-deprecation and an affable persona, is anticipated to bring a new energy to the Oscars—an energy that may translate into higher viewership numbers.
Why Jimmy Kimmel Said Goodbye to the Oscars
Jimmy Kimmel revealed on the “Politickin” podcast the reasons behind his decision to step away from the Oscars. Citing the overwhelming commitment required to host the awards, Kimmel expressed a desire to prioritize his late-night show and personal life.
I just decided I didn’t want to deal with that this year. It was just too much last year. You wind up pushing everything off till after the Oscars, and then you have to do everything you promised to do after the Oscars, after the Oscars.
Kimmel also explained the difficulty of balancing responsibilities:
I’m not good at balancing. I’m really not. It’s not one of my strengths. I’m all in when it comes to something like the Oscars. I think about it in the morning and at night, and when I have ideas I want to work on them, and then my nightly show seems like a nuisance… It’s fun to do, and it feels good when it went well, but, for me, just was too much, to do it three years in a row.
His candid discussion about the challenges of balancing multiple high-profile responsibilities resonated with many, providing insight into the demands placed on Oscar hosts.
What to Expect from Conan O’Brien at the Oscars
With a track record of successful shows and a knack for handling live events with both humor and grace, Conan O’Brien is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the Oscars. His debut is highly anticipated, with fans and industry insiders alike curious to see how he will handle the pressures and privileges of hosting cinema’s most glamorous night.
The change in hosts is more than just a new face on stage; it symbolizes a potential shift in how the Oscars will be perceived moving forward. If Conan O’Brien’s past performances are any indication, the 2025 Oscars are set to not only entertain but also engage a broader audience, possibly setting new standards for how the show is conducted in the years to come. As the countdown to the big night begins, all eyes will be on O’Brien to see if he can indeed turn this opportunity into a watershed moment for the Oscars.