Neil Patrick Harris calls the Oscars ‘the most thankless award ceremony’

Neil Patrick Harris has revisited his experience hosting the Academy Awards, describing the Oscars as "the most thankless award ceremony" while reflecting on one of the highest profile jobs in Hollywood.

Speaking in a new interview with The Times, Harris looked back on presenting the 87th Academy Awards in 2015, explaining why he believes the role places hosts in an almost impossible position. Although leading the ceremony is widely considered one of the entertainment industry's biggest honours, Harris suggested that the expectations attached to the event often outweigh the rewards.

"The Oscars is the most thankless award ceremony," Harris said, offering a candid assessment of the experience more than a decade after stepping onto Hollywood's biggest stage.

Harris is no stranger to hosting major live events. Alongside the Academy Awards, he has fronted the Tony Awards on multiple occasions and has also hosted the Primetime Emmy Awards. His performances at those ceremonies earned widespread praise for his musical numbers, comedic timing and ability to keep live broadcasts moving smoothly.

His remarks highlight the unique pressure surrounding the Oscars, where every opening monologue, joke and production decision is dissected by viewers, critics and the film industry itself. Hosts are often expected to entertain a global audience while balancing humour with respect for nominees and winners, making the role one of the most scrutinised jobs in television.

Despite his comments, Harris has never suggested that he regrets accepting the opportunity. Instead, his observation reflects the demanding nature of the ceremony, where hosts frequently receive criticism regardless of how the broadcast is received. Over the years, numerous presenters have spoken about the intense preparation required and the challenge of satisfying both audiences in the theatre and millions watching around the world.

The interview coincides with the release of Harris's latest film, Sunny Dancer, a project that showcases a different side of the performer. While many audiences continue to associate him with comedy through roles in How I Met Your Mother, Doogie Howser MD and A Series of Unfortunate Events, the new film explores more emotional territory.

Harris first rose to prominence at the age of 16 after starring in Doogie Howser MD, becoming one of television's most recognisable young actors. He later reinvented himself with acclaimed performances across television, film and Broadway, earning multiple Emmy and Tony Awards while establishing himself as one of the entertainment industry's most versatile performers.

Throughout his career, he has balanced acting, singing, producing and hosting, making him a familiar face at prestigious awards ceremonies. His experience across different formats gives particular weight to his comparison between the Oscars and other live events.