US comedian and presenter Conan O’Brien stole the show at the 97th Annual Academy Awards held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California on March 2, 2025. Known for his self-deprecating humor, O’Brien charmed audiences with his quick wit and genuine passion for movies, creating a light and relaxed atmosphere throughout the event.
O’Brien’s hosting gig marked a return to broadcast television, where he previously hosted Late Night from 1993 to 2009 before a turbulent departure from NBC. Despite facing challenges and controversies, O’Brien’s resilience and creativity led to new opportunities, including a successful late-night show on TBS, a popular podcast, and a well-received travel series.
During the Oscars ceremony, O’Brien entertained viewers with a witty monologue that playfully poked fun at the Best Picture nominees while also addressing sensitive topics with grace and sincerity. His ability to blend humor with empathy resonated with the audience, making him a standout host for the prestigious event.
“The Oscars, often criticized as indulgent and superfluous,” remarked O’Brien. “Nevertheless, this prestigious event sheds light on an extraordinary community that remains largely unseen by the public eye.” Award ceremonies frequently face backlash for an excess of skits, gags, and contrived interactions with celebrities. This sentiment resonates especially with the Oscars; however, Conan’s comedic prowess shines in this aspect, as he masterfully navigated through each humorous segment with finesse. The evening commenced with a lighthearted sparring match between Conan and a mock-indignant Adam Sandler, playfully bantering over Sandler’s casual attire. Conan ingeniously balanced the fine line between entertainment and efficiency, incorporating a witty production number that humorously promised not to waste any time.
One of the highlights of the night was a clever parody advertisement for “CinemaStreams,” a product blending hundreds of smartphone screens to mimic the ambiance of a movie theater. The inclusion of a cameo by the legendary Martin Scorsese added an extra layer of charm to the skit. In a departure from the conventional solemn acknowledgments, Conan injected a dose of edgy humor by involving LA firefighters in delivering slightly irreverent jokes, illustrating his ability to infuse levity even in serious moments. The evening’s comedic mascot, a sandworm from Dune playing “Chopsticks” on the piano, encapsulated Conan’s signature blend of eccentricity and entertainment.
Above all, Conan’s hosting brilliance shone through in his ability to gracefully highlight the winners while maintaining a self-deprecating sense of humor. His quick wit and readiness to poke fun at himself endeared him to the audience, ensuring a comfortable atmosphere throughout the ceremony. Even in moments of misfired jokes, Conan effortlessly rebounded with self-referential quips, turning potential failures into comedic triumphs. His impromptu dance routines, reminiscent of his late-night persona, added a touch of whimsy and showcased his willingness to embrace his role as a court jester for the night.
As the hours wore on, Conan jokingly quipped, “If you’re still enjoying the show, you have something called Stockholm syndrome.” Yet, beneath the jest, his adept hosting skills were undeniable, transforming a four-hour marathon into an engaging spectacle. To get in touch, reach out to us at letters@time.com.
