Several of Jimmy Kimmel’s Oscar jokes were divisive, but it isn’t the first time this award season that a host faced pushback for mean-spirited humor. Golden Globes host Jo Koy had to address the negative reviews of his controversial jokes after his performance was panned. However, one award show host who received far more praise was none other than John Mulaney hosting the 2024 Governors Awards. His set poked fun at the nominees in a good-hearted manner, and he even made fun of himself by telling the story of failing to book a movie role. He already has hosting experience, so having him spearhead the Oscars seems like a natural move.
It’s safe to say no one expected a prolonged breakdown of “Field of Dreams,” which is likely why it worked so well. For people like @Hugo_Pinai on X, keeping things fresh is essential for an Oscars host. They wrote, “It was a really good show and the one element that didn’t work was Kimmel doing the same old tired jokes about movies being too long and animation being just for kids.” Mulaney’s “Field of Dreams” bit and his “Madame Web” barb prove he can weave between topical references and potentially more obscure jokes that people who genuinely love cinema would appreciate.
Will Mulaney host the Oscars in the future? That remains for the powers that be to decide, but it would certainly earn the Academy Awards some goodwill. Honestly, he could just describe the plots to previous Oscar winners for four hours, and most people would be happy.
