SNL alum John Mulaney rejected offer to host 2024 Oscars (and here's why)

John Mulaney is the platonic ideal of an Oscars host. He's irreverent and witty, but he's also deeply passionate about cinema, and knows how to juxtapose these different stances into fun material. It's the reason his Field of Dreams bit at the 2023 Oscars was such a hit.

John Mulaney was the fan favorite to host the 2024 ceremony, and the Oscars knew it because they offered the former SNL writer the gig. Unfortunately, for both the Oscars and the fans, the comedian turned it down. It may be surprising to some, given the exposure that comes with holding down such a prestigious position, but it's something Mulaney had expressed doubt over in the past.

Mulaney voiced his reluctance to host the Oscars in June

During a June interview with IndieWire, the comedian was asked about his desire to host the Oscars. The outlet made reference to his viral bit from the previous ceremony, and his universally praised turn as the host of the Academy Governor's Awards in January.

In Mulaney's estimation, the scrutiny and the exposure of the Oscars has actually been a deterrent for him. The reason he agreed to host the Academy Governor's Awards, or the Film Independent Spirit Awards, was because they were smaller ceremonies that allowed for more comedic flexibility:

"I personally have an affinity for [something lower key]. It’s so fun to try to do your absolute best at not the biggest award show."

The comedian prefers hosting smaller awards shows

The comedian had an absolute blast with the aforementioned award shows, but he made it clear that he doesn't want the baggage that comes with the Oscars. "[The Spirit Awards or Governor’s Awards], they’re just a little more relaxed and casual," he asserted. "Going in and trying to have a s**tload of fun is a great feeling."

John Mulaney closed out his IndieWire interview by claiming that he was "open" to anything with regards to hosting opportunities, but based on his recent decision, it's clear that he felt the Oscars would not be the right fit. The search for a host has officially begun.