Conan O’Brien is set to take on the role of Oscars host once again, marking his return to the prestigious awards ceremony following a successful debut last year. The 2026 Academy Awards will take place on March 15, and O’Brien will be sharing the spotlight with internet sensation Amelia Dimoldenberg, who will be releasing a special episode of her popular YouTube series, Chicken Shop Date, featuring the comedian two days prior to the event.
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Dimoldenberg, who is known for her unique interview style, announced the upcoming episode via her social media platforms. “It’s an honour to share chicken nuggets and chips with this titan of comedy ahead of the Oscars this Sunday,” she remarked in a message to PEOPLE. The 32-year-old influencer expressed admiration for O’Brien’s comedic talent, playfully lamenting the fact that “the good ones are always taken.”
In a playful promotional clip on TikTok, the two teased their forthcoming episode by recreating a viral moment featuring actress Megan Fox, who expressed her fondness for O’Brien’s attributes. Their light-hearted banter reflects the humorous chemistry between the two, setting a lively tone ahead of the Awards.
O’Brien’s return to the Oscars comes on the heels of a notable surge in viewership for the awards ceremony last year, achieving its highest rating in five years. Given his success, the Academy was quick to invite him back to host the event, ensuring a night of entertainment filled with his signature wit and charm.
Alongside O’Brien, Amelia Dimoldenberg will also make her return to the Oscars, serving as a red carpet correspondent and social media ambassador for the third consecutive year. Her role has merged the world of traditional film accolades with the dynamic sphere of social media, catering to a younger audience who engage with the Awards in diverse ways.
In a recent discussion with The New Yorker, O’Brien shared insights into the preparations for the Oscars, highlighting his creative process. He likened generating ideas for his monologue to the efforts of RAF pilots during the Battle of Britain, emphasising the need for a multitude of concepts, of which only a few would ultimately resonate. “I can’t fake enjoyment,” he commented, indicating that true enjoyment is essential for effective performance.
Dimoldenberg’s Chicken Shop Date series, which began in 2014, has seen her interview an array of high-profile celebrities in a fun, informal setting, including the likes of Jennifer Lawrence and Bella Hadid. The show’s unique approach combines flirtation and quirky interviews, setting it apart in the current digital landscape.
The social media star is not resting on her laurels, as she is also developing a romantic comedy with Amazon MGM Studios’ Orion Pictures. The film will centre around a journalist whose life takes an unexpected turn following a celebrity interview that turns into a romance, adding another dimension to her expanding career.
Meanwhile, Conan O’Brien continues to broaden his comedic repertoire through his podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend. Since concluding his late-night talk show in 2021, he has engaged with various celebrities, including Barack Obama and Tom Hanks, showcasing his ability to connect with prominent figures beyond the traditional talk show format.
As excitement builds for the Oscars, O’Brien’s return promises to bring laughter and entertainment to the night, while Dimoldenberg’s Chicken Shop Date episode adds a fun prelude to the main event. With both personalities embracing their roles, viewers can look forward to a vibrant Oscars ceremony that fuses classic Hollywood glamour with contemporary humour and charm.