Oscars host Conan O’Brien shocked Hollywood’s elite with a joke referencing convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein and the disgraced former Prince Andrew during his opening monologue at the 2026 ceremony. The comedian did not name the duo directly but alluded to the controversy surrounding the Epstein files.
O’Brien noted the absence of British acting nominees for the first time since 2011, saying: “But at least they arrest the paedophiles over there.” The remark prompted a ripple of shock through the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, followed by applause.
The joke comes after millions of files related to the Epstein case were unveiled in January, linking the late financier to figures including Bill Gates and US President Donald Trump. In February 2026, Prince Andrew – full name Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor – was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, with investigators probing whether he sent sensitive government information to Epstein.
Trump has denied any wrongdoing regarding his mentions in the Epstein files, calling the release a “hoax”. He has not been accused of criminal wrongdoing. The Oscars ceremony also saw One Battle After Another win Best Picture and Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson, while Jessie Buckley and Michael B Jordan took home Best Actress and Best Actor respectively.
