Full Breakdown
Conan O’Brien Hosts the 2026 Oscars: A Night of Humor and Reflection
3/16/2026, 8:31:46 PM
Opening Monologue Highlights
Conan O’Brien returned to host the 98th Academy Awards on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, delivering a lively opening monologue that balanced humor with poignant commentary. O’Brien began with a pre-taped sketch where he portrayed Aunt Gladys from the film *Weapons*, humorously interacting with scenes from various Best Picture nominees, including *Sinners* and *Marty Supreme*. He then quipped, “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,” referencing the Oscars' future move to YouTube.
O’Brien's monologue included jabs at Timothée Chalamet, who faced backlash for dismissive comments about ballet and opera. “Security is extremely tight tonight,” O’Brien joked, “I’m told there are concerns about attacks from both the opera and ballet communities. They’re just mad you left out jazz.” This remark drew laughter from the audience, including Chalamet himself, who was seated nearby.
Political Undertones and Cultural Commentary
Throughout the evening, O’Brien did not shy away from political commentary. He referenced the ongoing global turmoil, stating, “Tonight is an international event... these are very chaotic, frightening times.” He emphasized the importance of the Oscars as a celebration of global artistry, collaboration, and optimism, noting that “31 countries across six continents are represented this evening.”
In a more pointed jab, O’Brien remarked on the absence of British actors in the nominations, saying, “It’s the first time since 2012 that there are no British actors nominated for best actor or best actress. A British spokesperson said, ‘Yeah, well, at least we arrest our pedophiles.’” This comment drew mixed reactions, highlighting the intersection of humor and serious societal issues.
Audience Reception and Criticism
O’Brien’s performance received a range of responses. While many praised his ability to blend humor with relevant commentary, some viewers criticized specific jokes, particularly those involving body humor and political references. Social media reactions were divided, with some defending O’Brien’s fearless approach to comedy, while others found certain bits, like the "bum drum" gag, unfunny.
Critics noted that O’Brien's hosting style, which included playful digs at Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos and the film industry, effectively kept the audience engaged. His ability to navigate the complexities of live television was acknowledged, despite some technical issues during the broadcast.
Awards and Notable Wins
The ceremony saw *One Battle After Another* dominate the night, winning Best Picture and several other awards, including Best Director for Paul Thomas Anderson. Michael B. Jordan won Best Actor for his role in *Sinners*, while Jessie Buckley took home Best Actress for *Hamnet*. The inaugural Best Casting Award went to Cassandra Kulukundis for *One Battle After Another*, marking a significant moment in Oscar history.
Conclusion
Conan O’Brien’s second stint as Oscars host was marked by a blend of humor, cultural critique, and heartfelt moments. His ability to address contemporary issues while entertaining a global audience reaffirmed the relevance of the Oscars in today’s cinematic landscape. As the ceremony concluded, O’Brien’s closing remarks echoed a sentiment of hope and resilience, reminding viewers of the power of film to inspire and unite.
