Conan O'Brien took centre stage as the host of the 98th Academy Awards, delivering an opening monologue that masterfully balanced silliness and sincerity. The beloved American comedian, in his second stint as Oscars host, navigated a range of sensitive topics with his trademark wit, from political divides to artificial intelligence, while also acknowledging the "frightening times" in global affairs.
A Monologue That Bobbed and Weaved Through Third-Rail Topics
The evening began with a snappily edited, old-school montage featuring O'Brien dressed as Amy Madigan's character from the film "Weapons," humorously noting he resembled "Bette Davis with lupus." This set the tone for a speech that would cheekily pay tribute to nominated films while tackling pressing issues. O'Brien quipped, "I am Conan O'Brien, and I am honored to be the last human host of the Academy Awards. Next year it's going to be a Waymo in a tux," poking fun at the rise of AI.
Jabs at Industry Figures and Political Commentary
O'Brien didn't shy away from targeting high-profile industry names. He joked about Netflix head Ted Sarandos, saying, "It's his first time in a theater! This is what they're talking about," and took aim at Amazon's lack of nominations, quipping, "Also shut out? Walmart, Alibaba and Chewy. Why isn't the website I order toilet paper from winning more Oscars?!"
The host also addressed the tense US political situation, remarking, "Tonight could get political, and if that makes you uncomfortable, there's an alternate Oscars hosted by Kid Rock. It's at the Dave & Buster's down the street." He touched on reports of beefed-up security, joking it was due to "concerns about attacks from both the opera and ballet communities," a reference to Timothée Chalamet's controversial comments about those art forms. To a smiling Chalamet, O'Brien added, "They're just mad you left out jazz."
Serious Reflections on Global Chaos and Cinema's Role
Amid the laughs, O'Brien turned sincere, acknowledging the Oscars as an international event. He stated, "Everyone watching right now, around the world, is all too aware that these are very chaotic, frightening times. It's at moments like these that I believe that the Oscars are particularly resonant – 31 countries across six continents are represented this evening, and every film we salute is the product of thousands of people speaking different languages, working hard to make something of beauty."
He added, "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. So let us celebrate not because we think all is well but because we work and hope for better."
Light-Hearted Moments and British References
O'Brien kept the mood light overall, glancing at third rails of US discourse without derailing the celebration. He humorously referenced the absence of British actors in top categories since 2012, saying, "but at least we arrest our pedophiles," an oblique nod to Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest in association with Jeffrey Epstein.
True to form, O'Brien dovetailed into a silly bit in the "spirit of optimism," accepting a mock award for "best achievement" while serenaded by Josh Groban and feted by the pope. The broadcast featured an array of A-list presenters, including Anne Hathaway, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Robert Downey Jr., with tributes to late icons like Rob Reiner and Diane Keaton.
Overall, Conan O'Brien's hosting performance at the 98th Oscars showcased his ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments, making for a memorable night that celebrated film while reflecting on broader global themes.
