Emmy Award winner Jimmy Kimmel is returning as the host for the upcoming 2024 Oscars ceremony for the fourth time.
Late-night host Jimmy Kimmel is set to take the reins once again as the host of the 96th Academy Awards.
This marks his second consecutive year at the helm and his fourth time overall—a testament to his comedic prowess and audience appeal.
The motion picture academy made the announcement on Wednesday, signaling a return to the Oscars stage for the beloved broadcaster.
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Return to the Oscars Stage
ABC, the broadcasting giant, is choosing Kimmel’s charm and wit. This decision comes after the 2023 ceremony, which he hosted, drew in 18.8 million viewers.
While this number was the highest since the pre-pandemic broadcast in 2020, it still landed as the third-worst in recorded history.
Kimmel’s steady hand and cautious approach were crucial during the 2023 Oscars.
This followed the Will Smith-Chris Rock incident and played a pivotal role in stabilizing the Academy Awards after years of tumult.
This isn’t Kimmel’s first rodeo; he previously helmed the telecasts in 2017, 2018, and, of course, 2023.
With this upcoming gig, Kimmel joins the ranks of esteemed hosts. Whoopi Goldberg and Jack Lemmon are among those who have hosted the Oscars four times each.
However, the true titans in this arena are Johnny Carson with five, Billy Crystal with nine, and the legendary Bob Hope, who holds the record with an astonishing 11 hosting gigs.
“I always dreamed of hosting the Oscars exactly four times,” quipped Kimmel in a statement, highlighting his unique achievement in the world of Oscar hosting.
Behind-the-Scenes Powerhouse Team
The Academy has also announced its powerhouse team behind the scenes. Raj Kapoor will take on the role of executive producer and showrunner. While Katy Mullan as executive producer and Hamish Hamilton as the director.
Joining this stellar lineup is Molly McNearney, executive producer of “Jimmy Kimmel Live” and Kimmel’s wife. She will return for her second consecutive year as an executive producer for the show.
In a joint statement, Kapoor and Mullan praised Kimmel’s exceptional hosting skills, describing him as one of the all-time greats, seamlessly blending humanity and humor.
Molly McNearney, known for her prowess in live TV production, further adds to the formidable team.
Mark your calendars for Sunday, March 10, 2024.
The 96th Oscars promises an entertaining night at the Dolby Theatre. Jimmy Kimmel is at the forefront, steering the ship with his trademark charisma and comedic brilliance.
Banner photo via Instagram @jimmykimmel.
