The 2025 Oscars are almost here! In preparation for everything that is to come, host Conan O’Brien, along with the rest of the creative team working on the ceremony, gave some details about what we will see in this new edition of the most prestigious awards in cinema.
Los Angeles as Main Theme at the Oscars Ceremony
O’Brien and the rest of the team shared that one of the main themes of the 97th edition of the Oscars is to honor the city of Los Angeles after the fires that devastated the city. In addition, there will be a charitable component for viewers to donate to. Also special moments related to the city and the films filmed there will be celebrated. Likewise, the team made it clear that this year’s theme also celebrates the connection between people who work in the film industry, highlighting both those in front of the cameras and those behind them.
Our host highlighted the great team behind the ceremony and gave some details about his gala suit: it is made by a local company in Los Angeles — confirming this year’s edition’s commitment to honor the city. He also commented that, although it has his name on the inside, he will not be able to keep it. It will be hard for O’Brien to say goodbye to the gala suit, since, along with the monologue and the incredible lighting, it is one of the things that excites him the most.
As for the preparation to get here, the team points out that it is similar to other previous experiences, such as the Emmys, although with a unique level of pressure and intensity.
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Surprises Amid an “Immersive Gala”
As for what to expect from the ceremony, O’Brien and the rest of the team highlight the importance of keeping the material fresh and relevant, as “a great awards show comes from great collaboration.” They emphasized the focus on collaboration and emotional connection with the audience, setting the intention to expand them through music and atmosphere.
The team also commented on the importance of creating an immersive experience, highlighting that the stage is designed so that the audience feels “emotionally connected to it.” They described the stage aesthetic as a “temple, a room for celebration,” inspired by the idea of “alchemy,” where all parts of the show work together to create magic.
O’Brien highlighted that the entire team is working so that this year’s show continues to be “joy and celebration.” In addition, details were given of one of the most anticipated moments of the ceremony: the musical tribute to Quincy Jones, who will receive the Governor’s Award this year. O’Brien revealed that actress Queen Latifah will be part of that special performance.
He also mentioned that “every presenter and artist announced has more to come,” suggesting that there will be surprises throughout the night. Thus, the Oscars ceremony will continue to have that mix of serious and light moments that work so well. However, balancing them has been a challenge for the team. Thus, they revealed that this is a “work in progress” that always evolves.
As for the monologue, O’Brien shared that he will attack Hollywood darlings like Ron Howard and Tom Hanks because “no one has a bad thing to say about them.” So he “will take them both down.” He also mentioned that he hopes Spielberg and Lucas will be present so he can make fun of their movies, emphasizing that he will avoid anyone with a controversial past because “no one will see that coming.”
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Diversity as a Driver of Change at the Oscars
O’Brien and the rest of the team stressed the importance of representing a global audience, mentioning the diversity of the nominees and how the “diversity of perspectives” will be celebrated throughout the ceremony. Regarding the latter, O’Brien clarified that his role as host involves reflecting what the public feels, but without diverting attention from the celebration of cinema and its creators. However, he assured that he will address the context with humor without the night becoming solely a political speech.
Likewise, that diversity will be impregnated both in the nominated films and in the ceremony itself. The team takes it as a responsibility to make the show “glamorous, beautiful, and touching.” And, going further, they mentioned that there will be “a special moment in the show” to honor the talent of Cynthia Erivo, who has received two nominations for Best Actress in a Leading Role.
In contrast, O’Brien remained mum on Ariana Grande and Erivo’s performance because “the whole trick here in this business is to get people to watch.” While he didn’t give details about this performance, he did mention that there will be performances by big names like Doja Cat, Blackpink’s Lisa, Queen Latifah, and the LA Master Chorale, as well as a tribute to Quincy Jones, ensuring that the performances “speak to this year in film” and celebrate both current cinema and legends.
Along with diversity, another highlight of this year’s Oscars ceremony is accessibility. Solutions have been designed to ensure that all nominees can access the stage independently, without it being seen as a “special accommodation.”
The 2025 Oscars will air on Sunday at 4:00 p.m. PT on ABC.
