Entertaining a live audience of industry peers while captivating millions of viewers at home is no small feat. However, earning a return invitation for an encore performance takes star power to a whole new level. Since the inaugural Academy Awards in 1929, Hollywood’s grandest night has featured an array of esteemed hosts, ranging from solo acts and dynamic groups to even going without a host.
Yet, only a select few have graced the Oscars stage multiple times in the role of host. From Bob Hope’s unparalleled 19 appearances to Jimmy Kimmel’s more recent hosting endeavours, here’s an exploration of the celebrities who’ve helmed Hollywood’s most prestigious evening on multiple occasions.
Bob Hope
The British-American comedian and actor, renowned for his collaborations with the iconic Bing Crosby, holds the record for hosting the Academy Awards a staggering 19 times, surpassing all other hosts to date. Hope made his debut as an Oscars host at the 12th Academy Awards in 1940.
Billy Crystal
Billy Crystal, catapulted to fame through his roles on the ABC sitcom ‘Soap’ and the beloved film ‘When Harry Met Sally’ in 1989, has graced the Oscars stage as host on nine occasions.
Reflecting on his hosting experiences, Crystal expressed in 2021 his belief in the necessity of a host for the show, emphasising the importance of having a central figure. He fondly reminisced, stating, “I had so many great memories hosting the show. It was a history of cinema for me.”
Johnny Carson
With his illustrious three-decade tenure as the host of ‘The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson,’ Johnny Carson was a seasoned veteran in the world of hosting. Affectionately dubbed ‘The King of Late Night’, Carson graced the Oscars stage as host on five occasions.
Jack Lemmon
The actor has not only hosted the Oscars four times but also clinched two wins, securing ‘Best Supporting Actor’ for ‘Mister Roberts’ in 1955 and Best Actor for ‘Save the Tiger’. Jack Lemmon’s inaugural hosting stint was shared with Rosalind Russell, James ‘Jimmy’ Stewart, Hope and Donald Duck.
Whoopi Goldberg
Whoopi Goldberg has not only hosted the Oscars four times but also secured the ‘Best Supporting Actress’ award in 1990 for her performance in ‘Ghost’. The versatile entertainer, known for her roles as an actress, comedian and host of ‘The View’, achieved a milestone in Oscars history by becoming the first Black woman to individually host the 66th ceremony.
Jimmy Kimmel
As of 2024, Kimmel has showcased his skills from ‘The Tonight Show’ on the Oscar stage on four occasions. The actor, comedian and host commenced his hosting duties. Following a short break, he made a triumphant comeback in 2023, following the notable all-female lineup of hosts.
Jerry Lewis
Known as ‘The King of Comedy’, Jerry Lewis took on the role of hosting the Oscars three times, yet the third occasion didn’t quite bring luck to the actor, who passed away in 2017. This final stint is notably remembered as the ceremony where the last award was mistakenly presented ahead of schedule, resulting in the show concluding 20 minutes earlier than planned.
David Niven
A recipient of the prestigious EGOT title, Steve Martin has helmed the Oscars stage as host on three occasions. Additionally, he co-hosted the 92nd Academy Awards with Chris Rock during the year when there was no designated host. Martin assumed hosting duties for the 73rd and 75th ceremonies in 2001 and 2003, respectively.
Steve Martin
Steve Martin, an esteemed EGOT recipient, has graced the Oscars stage as host on three occasions. Notably, he co-hosted the 92nd Academy Awards with Chris Rock during the year when the ceremony opted not to have a single host. Martin took on the hosting duties for the 73rd and 75th ceremonies in 2001 and 2003, respectively.
-Sushmita Sarkar