The 10 Worst Oscars Hosts of All Time
By April Jones
Neil Patrick Harris
It takes more than being funny and well-liked to have a successful Oscar-hosting gig. Neil Patrick Harris is a prime example of this. NPH is adored by many, he’s hilariously funny, but his appearance as an Oscar host fell flat. It’s not that hosting an awards show isn’t his thing. He’s done a spectacular job of hosting the Tony Awards numerous times, and he’s also been a hit at the Primetime Emmy Awards which he’s hosted twice. Something about the Oscars, however, just wasn’t working for him.
It could have been that the material didn’t give him much to work with. The mood at the Tony Awards seems to be a bit different which plays more to NPH’s strengths. He’s more vibrant, right down to his magic tricks. He’s more of a song-and-dance man than a comedian, although his style of humor may be better suited for recorded performances instead of live and improvisational.
Then again, it could have just been a tough crowd that night. There was a lot of controversy surrounding the lack of diversity in the Oscar nominations, especially when it came to Selma being overlooked in multiple categories. A few of the winners and presenters, like Patricia Arquette and Sean Penn, created tension as well. Considering his hosting track record and the tone of the 2015 Oscars, NPH may just need an opportunity for a do-over. Unfortunately, he’s already said that he’d probably pass up an invitation to host the Oscars again.