Conan O’Brien Sparks Conversation With Surprising Oscars Night Jokes
Conan O’Brien returned to host the 98th Academy Awards, bringing his mix of self-deprecating humor and sharp commentary to the Dolby Theatre stage. This was his second time as Oscars host, and he opened the night with a playful montage showing himself inserted into some of the year’s biggest films, including a funny scene dressed as Amy Madigan’s character from Weapons.
Once he took the stage in front of the star-studded audience, O’Brien joked about the rise of artificial intelligence in Hollywood. “I am Conan O’Brien, and I am honored to be the last human host of the Academy Awards,” he said.
“Next year, it’s going to be a Waymo in a tux.” His monologue also touched on serious topics like global politics and heightened security, but he kept the laughs coming while making his point about the power of movies to bring people together.
Conan O’Brien and Liza Powel O’Brien walk the red carpet at the #Oscars.
— 0N7 BASE (@0N7Base) March 15, 2026
pic.twitter.com/dMHU7AvsH0
O’Brien didn’t hold back when poking fun at celebrities. He teased Timothée Chalamet about his past comments on art and joked that the extra security was actually protecting him from the opera and ballet communities.
“They’re just mad you left out jazz,” he said, making Chalamet laugh in the front row. He also took playful jabs at streaming giants and major retailers, asking, “Why isn’t the website I order toilet paper from winning more Oscars?”
O’Brien has remained a beloved figure in comedy since finishing his late-night career. He now hosts the podcast Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend and travels for his Max series Conan O’Brien Must Go, which has earned praise for its humorous travel adventures.
Reports also say he is working on a new scripted comedy for a major streaming service. The Oscars themselves featured memorable moments beyond O’Brien’s hosting. Amy Madigan won Best Supporting Actress for her role in Weapons, a film directed by Zach Cregger and starring Pedro Pascal and Renate Reinsve.
The evening also included a moving tribute to the late director Rob Reiner. Many presenters, including Robert Downey Jr. and Anne Hathaway, are set to appear in big upcoming summer blockbusters, showing that Hollywood’s busy season continues.
The broadcast reached viewers in 31 countries, reinforcing O’Brien’s closing message about the importance of art and collaboration. “We pay tribute tonight, not just to film, but to the ideals of global artistry, collaboration, patience, resilience, and that rarest of qualities today – optimism,” he said as he wrapped up his set.
Have something to add? Share your thoughts in the comments.
