Network executives praised O’Brien’s unique comedic energy and its impact on the broadcast. Conan has joked about moments from past ceremonies — including a quip about Adrien Brody’s long acceptance speech — and has spoken about how watching the Oscars as a child linked him to his father. His father, Dr. Thomas O’Brien, died in December 2024; Conan described hosting as a meaningful, personal milestone.
The live telecast will air from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood on March 14, 2027, at 7 p.m. EDT/4 p.m. PDT on ABC and Hulu. Fans will be watching to see what new twists the returning team brings.