Conan O’Brien’s 2026 Oscars Hosting Strategy: Why He’s Waiting to Write Jokes

Comedian Conan O’Brien is returning to host the Academy Awards. The 2026 Oscars will be held on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre. This marks his second time helming the prestigious ceremony.

O’Brien confirmed his hosting duties during a recent red carpet appearance. He explained his unique approach to preparing for the high-pressure event. The veteran talk show host is in no rush to finalize his material.

Flexible Preparation for a Fast-Changing Show

O’Brien revealed he has not written much of his monologue yet. He told E! News that it is still early in the process. He is waiting to see how the awards season unfolds over the coming months.

He compared the process to a restaurant menu that constantly changes. A joke that works one week might feel outdated the next. This requires a flexible and adaptive writing strategy.

The host learned this lesson during his first Oscars gig. He recalled constantly revising his material right up until showtime. This fluid approach allows him to incorporate last-minute developments.

The Agony and Ecstasy of Live Television

The preparation period involves months of intense work. O’Brien described it as an agonizing process of creation and revision. However, he said the energy of a live audience makes it all worthwhile.

He expressed relief that the crowd at his previous hosting gig were “laughers.” Their positive response helped the show flow smoothly. O’Brien was ultimately very happy with how the evening turned out.

The comedian is honored to have been asked back. He plans to work hard and deliver a memorable show. The entertainment industry eagerly awaits his signature comedic take on Hollywood’s biggest night.

Conan O’Brien’s strategic patience as the Oscars 2026 host highlights the complex art of live awards show comedy. His adaptable method ensures the jokes will be fresh and relevant for the global audience.

Thought you’d like to know-

When is the 2026 Oscars ceremony?

The 96th Academy Awards are scheduled for March 15, 2026. The event will be held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, as is tradition.

How many times has Conan O’Brien hosted the Oscars?

The 2026 ceremony will be Conan O’Brien’s second time hosting the Oscars. His first time was for the 2025 Academy Awards.

What is Conan O’Brien’s approach to writing his Oscars monologue?

He prefers a flexible strategy, waiting to see how the awards season develops. He compares it to a changing restaurant menu, adapting jokes until the last moment.

Where was Conan O’Brien announced as the 2026 host?

He discussed his return while on the red carpet for the 63rd New York Film Festival. The event was for his project “If I Had Legs I’d Kick You.”

What was O’Brien’s review of his previous Oscars hosting performance?

He stated he was “really happy” with how the show went and grateful for the positive reception. He appreciated that the audience was responsive and engaged.