US EditionConan O'Brien plays Aunt Gladys and takes opening shots at AI and Chalamet to open 2026 Oscars
Conan O'Brien used humor to address Hollywood power dynamics and political issues while handing out snack boxes to attendees at the 98th Academy Awards, held at the Dolby Theatre.
- On Sunday, March 15, 2026, Conan O'Brien hosted the 98th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, delivering a monologue that balanced humor with pointed political commentary.
- Warning the audience that the evening might turn political, O'Brien joked that conservative viewers could find an alternative ceremony hosted by Kid Rock at a local Dave & Buster's, referencing recent Super Bowl counterprogramming.
- Referencing the Kennedy Center rebrand, the host joked the ceremony was in the "Has A Small Penis Theater," a jab interpreted as critique of President Donald Trump's efforts to rename the landmark.
- O'Brien also noted no British actors were nominated for the first time since 2012, quipping that "at least we arrest our pedophiles," referencing recent legal developments involving Jeffrey Epstein.
- Reflecting on his role, O'Brien joked he might be the "last human host" of the Academy Awards, suggesting a "Waymo in a tux" could replace him next year amid industry AI adoption.
66 Articles
66 Articles
The Independent
The Independent (US)Conan O’Brien shocks Oscars crowd with Epstein joke in opening monologue
Hollywood A-listers were left stunned by unexpected quip
Conan O'Brien used the stage at the 2026 Oscars to launch a direct and targeted provocation at Donald Trump. Returning from the first commercial break on Sunday, March 15, the evening's 62-year-old host momentarily set aside his opening remarks about stars like Timothée Chalamet and Leonardo DiCaprio to launch a frontal attack. The target? The controversial practice of the US president of placing his name on buildings across the country. "Welcom…
The couple was "betrayed" by the ceremony host's reference to DiCaprio as the "king of memes"
Conan O'Brien Opens Oscars With Jokes About AI, Kid Rock
Conan O'Brien launched the 98th Academy Awards with a Sabotage -scored sprint through the nominees, dressed as Amy Madigan's character in Weapons , and a plea for what he called "that rarest of qualities today: optimism." O'Brien, hosting for the second time, alluded to "chaotic and frightening times" in his opening...
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 56% of the sources lean Left
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
