Jimmy Kimmel’s a glutton for punishment. The Emmy Award winner has accepted the job of hosting the Academy Awards, with the 2023 show marking his third time as host of the next Oscars.
Jimmy Kimmel hosted Hollywood’s biggest night in 2017 and 2018. 2019, 2020, and 2021 shows went hostless, and 2022’s brought in the talented threesome of Regina Hall, Amy Schumer, and Wanda Sykes. The 2022 broadcast was marred by the slap heard around the world which resulted in Will Smith leaving the Academy after he charged the stage and slapped presenter Chris Rock.
“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,” said Kimmel.
“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!” stated executive producers and showrunners Glenn Weiss and Ricky Kirshner. Molly McNearney is also on board to executive produce.
The 95th Oscars will take place on Sunday, March 12, 2023 and will air live on ABC.
“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,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang. “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 filmmakers.”
“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,” stated Craig Erwich, president, ABC Entertainment, Hulu & Disney Branded Television Streaming Originals. “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.”
