Who will answer the call for hosting duty and keep Oscars night afloat this weekend? Find out everything you need to know below!
The host of an awards show sometimes seems like an arbitrary role or a thankless job. They’ve got to keep the evening flowing, smooth out any sudden kinks that may arise, remain on their toes during the live show, and perhaps most importantly, entertain us. And while it’s a difficult task no matter which award is being given out, the host of Academy Awards is a highly coveted and super high-profile role.
Often, whoever is the evening’s Chosen One can seemingly flounder under the pressure of guiding the audience of Hollywood’s best (not to mention millions of at-home viewers) along for the 3+ hours of merriment. But this year, we won’t have to worry about an amateur flubbing his lines or choking up or feeling out of place.
This year, we’ve got uber-pro Jimmy Kimmel at the helm of this gilded, delightfully over-the-top ship. And we’re definitely going to be in good hands.
Photo: ABC/Jeff Lipsky)
Aside from the pretty impressive fact that he’s hosted his own late-night TV show for over 10 years, Jimmy Kimmel is no stranger to the awards show circuit. He possesses an Emmy of his very own, a WGA Award. Plus, he hosted the Emmy Awards not once, but TWICE, most recently being just last year. He’s also, obviously, a funnyman, which really helps. Especially this year, when things are bound to get political. His familiarity with many of the nominees won’t hurt either.
As a long-time late-night host, he’s undoubtedly developed a repartee with most of Hollywood. AND his Jimmy Kimmel Live! after-Oscars specials have been going viral for the past several years — a testament to his ability to bring us what’s sure to be a memorable ceremony filled with celeb-packed bits and all-in-good-fun jabs.
Of course, we don’t have to convince you to watch. I’m sure you, like many of us, would tune into the Oscars even if a half-sentient robot were hosting. But luckily, at least for now, we’ve got someone much, much better.
Next: Oscars 2017: Final Predictions
Tune in this Sunday, Feb. 26, 2017 at 7 p.m. ET on ABC for Kimmel-led excitement, surprises, tears, and jokes that will probably make the White House angry.