Jimmy Kimmel steps back from hosting the 2025 Oscars

A break from the spotlight

Jimmy Kimmel, the beloved late-night host, recently shared his decision to step away from hosting the 2025 Oscars during an episode of the “Politickin’” podcast. Known for his sharp wit and engaging presence, Kimmel has hosted the Oscars four times, in 2017, 2018, 2023, and 2024. While he enjoys the role, he admitted that it demands a significant amount of his time and energy, often detracting from his primary show, “Jimmy Kimmel Live.”

“I just decided I didn’t want to deal with that this year,” Kimmel explained. “It was just too much last year. You wind up pushing everything off till after the Oscars, and then you have to do everything you promised to do after the Oscars, after the Oscars.”

The balancing act

Kimmel candidly discussed his struggle with balancing the Oscars and his nightly show. He emphasized that his all-in approach to the Oscars leaves little room for anything else.

“I’m not good at balancing. I’m really not,” he admitted. “It’s not one of my strengths. I’m all in when it comes to something like the Oscars. I think about it in the morning and at night, and when I have ideas I want to work on them, and then my nightly show seems like a nuisance.”

Hosting the Oscars is a prestigious gig, but it comes with its own set of challenges. Kimmel noted that while it’s fun and rewarding when things go well, the preparation and execution can be overwhelming.

The search for the next host

Kimmel’s decision to step back has left the Academy searching for a new host. He mentioned that there are many talented individuals who would be great for the role, but most of them are reluctant to take it on.

“It takes a lot of time, and a lot of the people who you think, ‘That person would be great’… they know they’d be great, they just don’t want to do it,” he said. “When you think somebody’s going to be great, the only thing they can do is prove you wrong when they host the Oscars.”

A summer hiatus

Kimmel has been on a summer hiatus from “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” with guest hosts like Kathryn Hahn and Kumail Nanjiani stepping in. This break has given him some much-needed time to recharge and focus on other projects.

Reflecting on the Oscars experience

Hosting the Oscars is no small feat. It’s a high-pressure job that requires meticulous preparation and a thick skin. Kimmel’s reflections on his time as host provide a glimpse into the complexities of the role.

“They say it’s a thankless job. I wouldn’t necessarily describe it like that, because when it goes well, it isn’t, but it’s a tough spot to be in,” he shared.

The legacy of Oscars hosts

Kimmel is currently tied for the fourth most hosting duties with Whoopi Goldberg and Jack Lemmon. He sits behind Johnny Carson (5), Billy Crystal (9), and Bob Hope (19). This legacy of hosting the Oscars is a testament to his talent and dedication.

Looking ahead

As Kimmel steps back, the question remains: who will take on the mantle of hosting the 2025 Oscars? The role demands a unique blend of humor, grace, and resilience. While the search continues, Kimmel’s insights and experiences offer valuable lessons for anyone considering the job.

For those interested in revisiting Kimmel’s past Oscars performances, you can find trailers and more information on his hosting years here.

Final thoughts

Kimmel’s decision to step back from hosting the Oscars is a reminder of the importance of balance and self-care, even for those at the top of their game. His candid reflections provide a deeper understanding of the demands and rewards of hosting one of Hollywood’s biggest nights. As we look forward to the 2025 Oscars, we can appreciate the dedication and effort that goes into making the event a success, and eagerly await the announcement of the next host.