Kristen Bell Set to Host 2025 SAG Awards Amid Hollywood’s Resurgence

After a series of triumphant hosting performances, including Nikki Glaser’s memorable turn at the Golden Globes and Trevor Noah’s fronting of the Grammy Awards, which raised $7 million for Los Angeles fire relief, the allure of hosting awards shows is back in full swing. For Kristen Bell, who will host the 2025 SAG Awards airing on Netflix on Sunday, February 23, the enthusiasm for hosting has always been palpable.

Bell, who became the awards show’s first official host in 2018, is also a first-time nominee for her performance in the hit Netflix comedy series Nobody Wants This. However, she’s much more focused on the awards hopes of her favorite film of the year. “I mean, I can’t really think of any project other than Wicked, and I haven’t been able to think of any project other than Wicked for months,” says Bell. “But that’s just because I’m a musical theater kid and such a fangirl.” She’ll have many chances to see her top movie win. With five nods from the actors guild, Wicked leads the 2025 SAG Award nominations having earned recognition for best ensemble as well as for individual stars Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jonathan Bailey.

I like hosting. I like bringing people together. I like making goofy jokes and making people laugh… Being in a room full of my peers—there’s something very exciting about it. Plus, there’s a safety net because, as cutthroat as Hollywood can be, the SAG Awards have the best vibe because everyone’s excited to see each other, and they’re rooting for each other no matter who wins. So it was an easy yes.
— Kristen Bell

Bell is also keeping her eye on the year’s best TV—even titles that will only be eligible next year. “I don’t know if you’re watching Severance right now, but holy smokes,” she says. “No shade to the movies—movies have always been great—but I am kind of thrilled that people are recognizing the art form that is television.”

Bell’s enthusiasm for hosting and her commitment to the event are not just about the glamour. She understands the broader economic impact of such events. “Initially, I thought it was so superfluous to have an award show when LA was literally on fire, but then as I thought deeper about it, I reminded myself these award shows are a primary force driving the economy here in Los Angeles. They employ hundreds, if not thousands, of workers who need to work—drivers, caterers, hair-and-makeup people, tech, musicians. It’s not just the actors. It takes hundreds and hundreds of people to put these shows on. It’s how Los Angeles thrives, and I think we have a responsibility to show up for people’s jobs in Los Angeles, and that’s why we’re going to do it.”

Bell’s approach to hosting is rooted in her unique style of comedy, which she describes as goofy and self-deprecating. “My style of comedy, if I were to explain it, is more goofy and self-deprecating. I don’t roast people. I’m not here to attack, and that’s generally a safe place to operate from. I just want it to be happy and fun, and I feel like we tried to do that the first time around, and it was successful enough that they invited me back. I’m not a stand-up comedian because I’m not a good enough writer. This is as close as I’ll ever get, and it feels very fun to me.”

Bell’s hosting style is a breath of fresh air in an industry often dominated by more aggressive and critical humor. Her approach aligns with the positive vibe of the SAG Awards, where the focus is on celebrating achievements rather than tearing down competitors. This mindset is crucial, especially in a year marked by significant challenges, including the devastating Los Angeles fires.

While the SAG Awards are a celebration of excellence in film and television, they also serve as a reminder of the industry’s resilience and its impact on the broader economy. The event not only recognizes the talents of actors and filmmakers but also supports the livelihoods of countless behind-the-scenes workers. This dual role underscores the importance of continuing such events, even in the face of adversity.

The 2025 SAG Awards promise to be a night of celebration, laughter, and recognition of the best in film and television. With Kristen Bell at the helm, the event is poised to deliver a memorable and uplifting experience for both the audience and the nominees.