The Academy has announced the date for its 98th ceremony, with comedian Conan O’Brien returning as host.
Oscars Announce 2026 Ceremony Date as Conan O’Brien Returns as Host
BY Esther Kalu
March 20, 2025
6:44 am
The American Film Academy has officially set March 15, 2026, for the 98th Academy Awards.
The announcement was made on March 17, 2025, by Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang.
The 97th Oscars, held earlier this year, saw Sean Baker’s “Anora” dominate with five wins, including Best Picture and Best Director. Other notable winners included “The Brutalist” with three awards, while “Wicked” and “Dune: Part Two” each secured one.
Kramer and Yang also confirmed the return of Conan O’Brien as the host, following his well-received performance at the previous ceremony. Emmy-winning producers Katy Mullan and Raj Kapoor will return for their third consecutive year to lead the production.
“We are thrilled to bring back Conan, Raj, Katy, Jeff, and Mike for the 98th Oscars. Conan was the perfect host, skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth, and reverence”, they said in a joint statement.
The 98th Academy Awards will air live on ABC from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.