Conan O’Brien has always been a master of wit, charm, and self-deprecating humor, but his recent Oscars hosting debut has solidified his place as one of the greatest to ever grace the stage. The Atlantic called it “understanding the assignment,” and honestly, they couldn’t be more right. Conan didn’t just show up; he delivered a performance that reminded us why we fell in love with him in the first place.
From the moment he stepped onto the stage, Conan brought his signature blend of sharp humor and effortless charisma. His jokes were biting yet endearing, and his ability to poke fun at Hollywood’s elite without alienating them is a skill few possess. Nikki Glaser, in her review for Deadline, highlighted her favorite moment: the Adam Sandler-Timothée Chalamet joke. It was a perfect example of Conan’s ability to balance absurdity with relatability, leaving the audience in stitches.
Variety’s critique that the telecast felt “too small” for Hollywood’s biggest night is valid, but Conan’s presence elevated the entire event. He made the Oscars feel intimate, like a gathering of friends rather than a stiff, overly polished ceremony. His humor bridged the gap between the glitz of Hollywood and the everyday viewer, making the show accessible and entertaining for everyone.
What truly sets Conan apart, though, is his authenticity. He doesn’t try to be anyone but himself, and that’s why his jokes land so well. Whether he’s riffing on his own career missteps or playfully roasting A-listers, there’s an underlying warmth that makes his humor feel genuine. Yahoo Entertainment’s roundup of his best jokes from the night is a testament to his comedic genius—each one a reminder of why Conan is a legend in the industry.
In a world where awards shows often feel overly rehearsed and devoid of personality, Conan O’Brien was a breath of fresh air. He reminded us that the Oscars can be fun, unpredictable, and, most importantly, human. If this is what his hosting debut looks like, here’s hoping it’s not his last. Hollywood, take note: Conan O’Brien didn’t just understand the assignment—he aced it.
