When Conan O'Brien returns to host the 98th Academy Awards on Sunday, he’ll have a familiar face from late-night television helping out on the big night. And the comedian's appearance should get the attention of a very important person watching at home.
The Academy has tapped Jimmy Kimmel as one of this year’s presenters, bringing together two of the most recognizable figures in late-night comedy on Hollywood’s biggest stage. It's also something of a homecoming for the Jimmy Kimmel Live! host.
Kimmel is no stranger to the Oscars. The late-night TV star previously emceed the ceremony four times, earning strong reviews for his steady hand during the live broadcast and for his ability to balance Hollywood roasts with political humor. After his most recent stint, however, Kimmel suggested he was effectively stepping away from hosting duties, closing the door on a fifth turn as host of the Oscars.
O’Brien, meanwhile, returns after successfully helming last year’s ceremony. The former Late Night with Conan O'Brien and The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien host earned positive reviews for his debut Oscars performance. He brought his quick wit to the table, as well as an ability to keep the show moving without losing a sense of spectacle. Fans also showed up for O'Brien and pushed the television broadcast to its best ratings in a half-decade. That strong showing earned him the opportunity to return for a second consecutive year, an offer he quickly accepted.
What to expect from Jimmy Kimmel’s Oscars moment
Of course, a Jimmy Kimmel appearance wouldn’t be complete without a little political edge. It shouldn't surprise anyone if the comedian brings some of his signature punchlines to the Academy Awards stage.
Kimmel has leaned heavily into political commentary on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, often using his monologues to criticize Donald Trump. The tension between the comedian and the president has frequently spilled beyond late-night TV, with Trump publicly criticizing Kimmel’s previous work hosting the Oscars.
Even in a short presenter segment, Kimmel could easily slip in a quick jab. It feels unlikely that he'd let the moment pass, especially since odds are good that President Trump will be watching the broadcast from the White House (or Mar-a-Lago). Who can forget Kimmel responding to Trump's real-time social media post during the Oscars in 2024?
What Kimmel says could also depend on who, if anyone, he's paired with to present the Oscar. Other comedians set to take the stage include Will Arnett, Kumail Nanjiani, and Maya Rudolph.
The Oscars air live on ABC and stream live on Hulu on Sunday, March 15 at 7 p.m. ET.