After a positive reception at this year’s telecast, emcee Conan O’Brien will return for the 98th Oscars on March 15, 2026.

The announcement comes from Bill Kramer, Academy CEO, and Janet Yang, Academy president, who also confirmed the return of the Emmy-winning producing team Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, who will lead the show for the third consecutive year.

Using his signature humor, O’Brien quipped in a statement: “The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech.

“We are thrilled to bring back Conan, Raj, Katy, Jeff and Mike for the 98th Oscars!” Kramer and Yang said in a joint statement. “This year, they produced a hugely entertaining and visually stunning show that celebrated our nominees and the global film community in the most beautiful and impactful way. Conan was the perfect host — skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth and reverence. It is an honor to be working with them again.”

My Oscar Book:

The broadcast drew 19.69 million viewers and had dominant presence on social media, with 104.2 million interactions, surpassing the Grammys and the Super Bowl in online engagement.

Craig Erwich, president of Disney Television Group, praised O’Brien’s “unforgettable performance,” conveying he’s a a great choice to lead Hollywood’s biggest night once again. “Conan’s unique comedic style perfectly captured the moment, and I’m excited to have his talents back onstage next year to helm another indelible performance.”

Behind the scenes, Kapoor and Mullan will once again oversee production, promising another dazzling celebration of cinema. “We are both so honored to be returning in our roles for the 98th Oscars,” the producers said. “We can’t wait to work with Conan and his entire team as we continue to explore even more special and heartfelt opportunities to celebrate next year’s nominees and the impact of film around the world.”

The 98th Academy Awards will air live on ABC on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.