The 98th Academy Awards saw a return to form for host Conan O’Brien, blending his signature comedic style with a surprisingly poignant message about the power of global collaboration and artistry. O’Brien kicked off the ceremony on Sunday, March 15, with a high-energy opening that included a memorable cosplay moment and a series of pointed jokes, but it was his closing remarks that resonated most deeply with viewers worldwide.
O’Brien’s monologue wasn’t afraid to tackle current events, even venturing into politically charged territory with a joke referencing the Jeffrey Epstein files. However, the comedian ultimately steered the conversation toward a message of unity and optimism, acknowledging the turbulent state of the world although highlighting the unifying force of film. The evening’s broadcast, held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, served as a reminder of the shared human experience that transcends borders and conflicts.
The opening began with O’Brien channeling Aunt Gladys from the Best Supporting Actress-winning film, Weapons, played by Amy Madigan. Donning white makeup and a red wig, he joked, “I glance like Bette Davis with lupus!” before being chased by a group of children, recreating a climatic scene from the movie. This quickly transitioned into a montage of parodies featuring nominated films, including Marty Supreme and Sentimental Value, ultimately leading him to the stage for his official monologue. As Just Jared reported, the opening was a whirlwind of comedic references.
After the spirited intro, O’Brien shifted gears, delivering a more serious message. “Tonight is an international event. If I can be serious for just a moment, everyone watching right now around the world is all too aware that these are highly chaotic, frustrating times. It’s at moments like these that I believe that the Oscars are particularly resonant. Check it out: 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 beautiful. We pay tribute tonight not just to film, but to the ideal global artistry, collaboration, patience, resilience, and that rarest of qualities today: optimism. So let us please celebrate,” he stated.
A Night of Jokes and Gentle Ribbing
Before his more earnest address, O’Brien’s monologue was filled with playful jabs at celebrities and current pop culture moments. He poked fun at Timothée Chalamet regarding his recent comments about preferring opera and ballet, a moment that drew laughter from the actor himself. He also playfully teased Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos, suggesting it was his first time in a theater. Gold Derby highlighted these moments as some of the monologue’s best.
The most audibly reactive joke of the night, however, involved a reference to the Jeffrey Epstein files. O’Brien quipped, “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 joke, while drawing a reaction, also sparked some controversy, demonstrating O’Brien’s willingness to push boundaries even during a major televised event.
O’Brien’s Second Year as Host
This marked O’Brien’s second consecutive year hosting the Academy Awards, a role he’s embraced with his characteristic wit and self-deprecating humor. IndieWire noted that his monologue “ran the gamut from the sublime to the ridiculous,” showcasing his versatility as a performer. His return as host signals a continued effort by the Academy to inject a dose of irreverence and unpredictability into the ceremony.
The 2026 Oscars also saw Sinners break a record with 16 nominations, setting the stage for a potentially historic night for the film. As the ceremony unfolded, O’Brien’s opening monologue set a tone that balanced celebration with a recognition of the complex world beyond the Hollywood bubble.
As the awards season concludes, the impact of O’Brien’s message of global collaboration and optimism remains. The Oscars, even amidst controversy and political undertones, served as a reminder of the power of storytelling to connect people across cultures and backgrounds. The coming weeks will reveal the lasting impact of the films celebrated and the conversations sparked by this year’s ceremony.
What did you think of Conan O’Brien’s monologue? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
