Jimmy Kimmel will be returning to host the 2023 Oscars, which will mark the third time that the late-show comedian has led the ceremony.
In a statement, Jimmy Kimmel said, “Being invited to host the Oscars for a third time is either a great honor or a trap. Either way, I am grateful to the Academy for asking me so quickly after everyone good said no.” Kimmel previously hosted the Oscars in 2017 and 2018, but after the 2018 ceremony drew then-record-low ratings, they went hostless for the next three years. Amy Schumer, Wanda Sykes, and Regina Hall hosted last year’s Oscars, which drew just 16.6 million viewers. The Academy is hoping that Jimmy Kimmel might be able to get the ratings for the 95th Academy Awards back to a more modest level. I’m sure some will be tuning in just to see if the ceremony will address the infamous slap.
Executive Producers and showrunners Glenn Weiss and Ricky Kirshner said, “We’re super thrilled to have Jimmy score his hat trick on this global stage. We know he will be funny and ready for anything.” Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang added, “Jimmy is the perfect host to help us recognize the incredible artists and films of our 95th Oscars. His love of movies, live TV expertise, and ability to connect with our global audiences will create an unforgettable experience for our millions of viewers worldwide. With Kimmel, Weiss and Kirshner’s fresh perspective and masterful guidance, the Oscars will celebrate its rich 95-year history, the collaborative nature of moviemaking, and our diverse, dynamic and deeply creative community of filmmaker.” Craig Erwich, president, ABC Entertainment, Hulu & Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals said, “Having Jimmy Kimmel return to host ‘The Oscars’ is a dream come true. As we see every night on his own show, Jimmy can handle anything with both heart and humor, and we know that he will deliver the laughs and celebratory moments that define the Oscars. We love being the home of Hollywood’s biggest night and can’t wait to toast the success of this year’s cinema and storytelling.“
The 95th Academy Awards ceremony will be held on March 12, 2023, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood and will be televised by ABC.