Hosting awards shows is not the big time gig it once was. There was a time when emceeing one of the major events, Oscars, Grammys, Emmys, and Tonys, was considered a big career move. However, recent controversies surrounding the performance of comedians Jo Koy and Jerrod Carmichael has led some famous names to shy away from these gigs. With 2024 Oscars host Jimmy Kimmel and popular comedian John Mulaney both reportedly turning down an offer to lead the 2024 Academy Awards, the biggest night in entertainment now finds itself in a bind. Never fear, we’re here to help. We’ve got some thoughts on Black stars would make great Oscars hosts. Dear Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, feel free to check out our picks to host the 2025 Oscars.
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Jamie Foxx
Oscar winner Jamie Foxx is the kind of entertainer who would be great at every aspect of hosting the show. Comedy, sketches, improv, musical numbers, he’s got it all handled.
The Wayans Family
Marlon Wayans, Shawn Wayans, Damon Wayans, Damon Wayans Jr., Keenan Ivory Wayans. Basically, the whole family assembles like an Avengers of comedy.
Nick Cannon
Whether you like Nick Cannon or hate him, you have to admit he’s an extrenely talented entertainer who has what’s needed to make a great Oscars host. However, he has made controversial comments in the past, so that could keep him from being considered for the gig.
Issa Rae, Robin Thede, Quinta Brunson
Yes, we basically want “A Black Lady Sketch Show” presents The Oscars. Make it happen!
Queen Latifah
If you’ve seen Queen Latifah host the NAACP Image Awards, then you already know that “The Equalizer” is an absolute legend who would own the Oscars stage like the boss that she is.
Wayne Brady
Comedy, drama, singing, dancing, improv, impressions, whatever the show needs, Wayne Brady has it covered. There’s literally nothing he can’t do as an entertainer.
Regina Hall
Last time Regina hosted, things got a little crazy. She deserves a do over without the controversy.
Wanda Sykes
Wanda Sykes also co-hosted the infamous 2022 Oscars, so lets bring her back for a second take. This time around, let her have the whole stage to herself to really have fun.
Kenan Thompson, Kel Mitchell
Kenan and Kel at the Oscars sounds like a comedy sketch, but it would actually be amazing. They’re TV and movie vets who can handle anything the award shoe gods throw at them.
Maya Rudolph
Maya is having a huge year and the best way to celebrate that is with a huge party on the Oscars stage. If she does a musical monologue, it could be an unforgettable moment.
Keke Palmer
Keke Palmer makes the most of every opportunity she’s given, so we know she’d knock it out of the park at the Oscars. She may not be a household name now, but once the rest of the world discovers what a special talent she is, she would be.
Dwayne Johnson, Kevin Hart
Kevin Hart has made it pretty clear he’s not interested in hosting the big show. But if he’s teamed up with his comedy partner Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, maybe he’d reconsider. The two of them would definitely provide one of the funniest shows we’ve seen in a while.
Ariana DeBose
Following the amazing job she’s done hosting the BAFTAs and the Tonys, the “West Side Story” Oscar winner should already be on the shortlist of choices.
Cedric The Entertainer
You know he’ll be hilarious, and he’ll definitely bring the culture to the big stage. Seriously, Entertainer is in his name.
Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele
We’re so ready for a “Key & Peele” reunion, and what better place for it to happen than the Oscars stage? Imagine the valets celebrating the biggest movies of the year.
Straight From 
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