Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson
Who doesn’t like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson? The recently-crowned Sexiest Man Alive (and self-appointed potential 2020 presidential candidate) is among the most universally-beloved and charming actors at the moment, and knows from years of wrestling how to work up a crowd — even ones as formal and well-dressed as the Oscars. Plus, “Moana” proved handsomely that he can belt out a song and the Oscars love their razzle dazzle showtune numbers. Add in his exceptional fan appeal — ratings, ratings, ratings — social media presence, versatile comedic chops and million dollar smile, and you’ve got yourself a very viable contender for this year’s ceremony.
Amy Schumer
Among the most outspoken and unapologetic comedians in Hollywood at the moment, Amy Schumer is right on the cusp of even bigger things. “Inside Amy Schumer,” “Trainwreck” and recent stand-up tours has increased her profile, all while her material continues to evolve and mature. While she may not be known in all corners of the country, Schumer could more than capably handle Oscar hosting duties, and it also doesn’t hurt that she’s BFFs with Jennifer Lawrence, who is certainly no stranger to the Oscars these past couple years. Pairing them together — if only for a few skits — would only make the show stronger.
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Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig
Though Anne Hathaway and James Franco sharing Oscar hosting duties turned out to be a huge dud, it wouldn’t hurt if the Academy gave it at least one more try, especially if the talent is proven. Though Will Ferrell and Kristen Wiig have certainly proven themselves on their own, when combined, they can be contagiously funny, and their inspired and delightfully awkward 2013 Golden Globes presentation is just a taste of what they could bring to the Oscars. They might be just a little too wild and unpredictable for the Academy, but if any awards show could use a bit of spontaneity, it’s the Oscars.
Kevin Hart
Much like Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Kevin Hart is huge in Hollywood right now. He’s a bankable comedic star, who also has a strong social media presence, knows how to work a crowd, and will do whatever it takes to get a laugh. If nothing else, Hart at the center of the stage would make for a ceremony unlike any other; a rambunctious, off-the-wall affair that will certainly be anything but boring. Moreover, he’d likely be a boon for ratings, and give a chance for the Oscars to open up their demographics a little bit more.
Aziz Ansari and Margot Robbie
Sometimes, you just have to throw a dart at the wall and see if it sticks, which is what we’ll do here. Though Margot Robbie and Aziz Ansari have no history together that we know of, they’re both established and lovable in their own rights . She’s become an A-list star with “Suicide Squad,” and while not a household name, Ansari’s profile has risen thanks to his Netflix show “Master Of None.” Given the chance to share the spotlight during this year’s ceremonies, you’ll get two rising stars working with one another on the kind of unique opportunity they likely won’t get again, and it’ll hopefully see them at their most inspired. It would certainly be something quite different from the expected.
Honorable mentions: There were other names we tossed around as possibilities. There’s always Tom Hanks, though he’s known to turn down the job every single year. If we had our druthers, comedians and actors like Key & Peele, Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer, Patton Oswalt, Larry David, Samantha Bee, Hannibal Buress, Stephen Colbert, Mindy Kaling, John Oliver, James Corden and Joseph Gordon-Levitt — perhaps off-kilter choices — would all be in the running to host the show.
If we were to go with charming actors who could take on the gig, Channing Tatum, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Pratt, Jack Black, Ben Stiller, Seth Rogen, Anne Hathaway (by herself, I should add), and Scarlett Johansson would all be in the mix.
There are an endless array of choices, it seems, but the Academy better pick quick. That February 26th date is coming sooner than later.