Jimmy Kimmel, host of ABC’s late-night talk show, will host the 89th Academy Awards on February 26, 2017. When ABC renewed their arraignment with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences, they sought increased influence over the annual broadcast. While the Academy retains decision making power over the show’s producers and hosts, it was no secret that ABC sought their marquee comedian to be considered for the broadcast. Kimmel recently hosted the Emmy broadcast which aired on ABC in September.
Kimmel took to Twitter to confirm the news:
Disney has several ties with the Academy as Bob Iger is one of the people leading the fundraising effort for the under development Academy Museum in Los Angeles.