As speculation mounts around potential hosts for the 2025 Academy Awards, one name that keeps cropping up is Ryan Reynolds, the charismatic actor best known for his roles in Deadpool and The Hitman’s Bodyguard. Despite buzz that suggests he and his Deadpool co-star Hugh Jackman could be a dream team to host the Oscars next year, Reynolds has been quick to downplay the idea, though he did express interest in taking on the job someday.
Here's ads banner inside a post
In a recent conversation with Variety on the Awards Circuit podcast, Reynolds addressed the rumors head-on. While he confirmed that he is not in active talks to host the prestigious ceremony in 2025, the 48-year-old actor revealed that it is an opportunity he would love to pursue at some point in the future.
A “Difficult Job”
Reynolds, however, was quick to note that hosting the Oscars is no easy task. The actor acknowledged the history of the role, referencing both successful and more challenging past performances.
Here's ads banner inside a post
“Historically speaking, that is a difficult job,” Reynolds admitted. “We’ve had people that have come before us that did it flawlessly, I think, and you’ve had people who are so talented and just based on what’s happening out there in the zeitgeist, you’re like, ‘Oh, that was hard. It’s a very hard job.'”
Despite these challenges, Reynolds added, “It would be a dream to do it one day. I’ll say that.” This statement has fans buzzing, imagining the chemistry between Reynolds and Jackman as co-hosts.
However, Reynolds remains grounded, explaining that, at least for now, he is focused on other priorities—chief among them spending quality time with his wife, Blake Lively, and their four children. He also revealed that he is dedicating much of his time in the upcoming year to writing a movie project that will see him, Jackman, and director Shawn Levy collaborating on a non-Marvel film.
Here's ads banner inside a post
A Busy Schedule, But Not Too Busy
While some may assume Reynolds is too busy to take on the gig, especially with the upcoming Deadpool 3 and Wolverine reboot, the actor made it clear that his current focus is on his family.
“I am not even busy,” he clarified, noting that he has been taking a break from major projects to prioritize his home life. “Also, let me say one thing, this is important. Deadpool & Wolverine, like the other Deadpool movies, they consume my entire life.” He explained that, from the early stages of production to the lengthy promotional tours, these high-profile projects demand his full attention. “I have four kids, and I actually—spoiler alert—love my kids. And I love seeing them and I love them seeing me,” he shared.
This year, Reynolds explained, is dedicated to his family. “So this year is kind of devoted, the next 12 months are just going to be with my kids.”
The Buzz Around Ryan and Hugh Jackman
The possibility of Reynolds and Jackman co-hosting the Oscars gained steam after Deadline reported in October that the two were among the frontrunners for the job. While other celebrities, including Will Ferrell, Amy Poehler, and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, were also mentioned as possible candidates, many fans have pointed to Reynolds and Jackman as the ultimate dynamic duo to take on the high-pressure hosting gig.
Jackman, who has a wealth of hosting experience, previously emceed the 81st Academy Awards in 2009. He also has a long history with the Tony Awards, hosting the prestigious ceremony four times and winning a Tony Award in 2004 for his performance in The Boy from Oz. Given Jackman’s success in hosting such major events, many believe that his partnership with Reynolds could be the perfect blend of humor, charisma, and entertainment value needed for a memorable Oscars show.
Jimmy Kimmel and John Mulaney Decline the Gig
The buzz surrounding Reynolds and Jackman’s potential hosting role comes after comedian Jimmy Kimmel, a frequent Oscars host, announced that he would not be returning for a fifth time. Kimmel had helmed the ceremony in 2017, 2018, and again in 2023, but sources confirmed he would not return in 2025. Similarly, comedian John Mulaney, who was reportedly in talks for the role, also declined the offer.
Reynolds and Jackman’s names were floated as potential hosts after Kimmel and Mulaney stepped down, with Deadline also reporting that sources indicated they were at the top of the list. With the two actors’ shared history as Deadpool and Wolverine—a pairing that’s beloved by fans—many feel they would bring a unique dynamic to the Oscars stage.
Reynolds and Jackman’s Close Friendship
The chemistry between Reynolds and Jackman is undeniable. The two actors have enjoyed a playful rivalry on social media, with Reynolds frequently roasting his friend and costar in hilarious videos and posts. Their banter has become a favorite among fans, and the idea of seeing them host the Oscars together has sparked excitement across social media.
While Reynolds has always been known for his quick wit and comedic timing, Jackman’s charm and smooth delivery have made him a favorite in the entertainment world. Together, they would bring a balanced mix of humor and sophistication to the ceremony.
However, it’s clear that the Oscars hosting gig is not something Reynolds is taking lightly. “It’s a really hard job,” he reiterated during the Awards Circuit podcast. “It’s a job that requires a lot of mental bandwidth.”
The 2025 Oscars and What’s Next
While the idea of Reynolds and Jackman hosting the Oscars remains a rumor for now, it’s clear that both actors would be open to the opportunity in the future. For Reynolds, hosting the Oscars is a long-term goal, but for now, his focus remains on his family and his creative endeavors, including the upcoming film project he is working on with Jackman and Levy.
As the 97th Academy Awards approach, many fans will be watching closely to see who ultimately lands the hosting gig. But for now, Reynolds’ response suggests that, while the idea of hosting with Jackman is appealing, it’s not something that will happen immediately.
With his deep commitment to his family and his love for his Deadpool and Wolverine projects, it seems the Oscars can wait—at least for now.
Conclusion
Ryan Reynolds’ candid comments about the possibility of hosting the 2025 Oscars with Hugh Jackman have certainly added fuel to the fire of speculation. While he acknowledges the allure of the gig, he also recognizes the challenges it presents, from the immense pressure of live TV to the preparation required to entertain millions of viewers worldwide. For now, Reynolds is content to focus on spending time with his family and working on new film projects, leaving the hosting duties to others in the immediate future.
However, as he says, “It would be a dream to do it one day,” and fans of the actor will undoubtedly be hoping that day comes sooner rather than later. Until then, Reynolds will continue to charm audiences with his signature humor and wit—whether in movies, on social media, or, perhaps, one day, on the Oscars stage.
