Jimmy Kimmel Set to Return as Host of the 96th Academy Awards
Los Angeles, CA – Late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel has been chosen to host the 96th Academy Awards, which will take place on March 10th. This will mark Kimmel’s fourth time hosting the prestigious event, having previously helmed the Oscars in 2017 and 2018. The decision was met with excitement from fans and industry insiders alike.
In addition to his role as host, Kimmel will be joined by Molly McNearney, co-head writer and executive producer of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!”, who will serve as an executive producer for the telecast. This collaboration promises to bring fresh and innovative ideas to the show, ensuring a memorable and entertaining evening for viewers.
The announcement was made by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, although they declined to comment further on the decision. The Oscars have been grappling with declining ratings in recent years, prompting organizers to experiment with different formats. In 2019, 2020, and 2021, the show infamously went without a host, while 2022 saw the introduction of three hosts – Wanda Sykes, Regina Hall, and Amy Schumer.
Kimmel’s return as host comes after a successful 2022 Oscars, which saw a rise in viewership to nearly 19 million, up from 16.6 million the previous year. This boost in numbers came after the lowest ever viewership of 10.4 million in 2021. Kimmel’s previous stints as host have been well-received by audiences, and his ability to navigate the live telecast with humor and grace makes him a popular choice.
Furthermore, Kimmel’s return is set to restore the event’s reputation after a controversial incident in 2022 involving Will Smith and Chris Rock. The incident brought negative attention to the Oscars, but with Kimmel back at the helm, organizers are confident in delivering a smooth and enjoyable show.
Not only will Kimmel be responsible for the onstage festivities, but changes are also being made to the red carpet preshow to enhance the glamour and reduce chaos. Consultants experienced in events like the Met Gala have been hired to revamp the red carpet experience, and a new champagne-colored carpet will replace the traditional red one. These modifications aim to create a more sophisticated and elegant atmosphere, setting the tone for a dazzling evening.
With Jimmy Kimmel once again leading the way, the 96th Academy Awards is expected to captivate audiences around the world. His proven track record as a host, paired with fresh ideas and improvements, ensures that this year’s Oscars will be a night to remember.
