Conan O’Brien wasted no time in setting a lively tone for the 2026 Oscars, launching the ceremony with a quick-witted and engaging opening monologue that immediately captured the audience’s attention. The veteran comedian, returning for his second consecutive year as host, used his platform to deliver a series of pointed jokes, including a memorable roast of actor Timothée Chalamet. His remarks cleverly referenced recent debates within the ballet and opera communities, showcasing O’Brien’s knack for blending current pop culture with sharp humor.
The 98th Academy Awards took place at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, where Hollywood’s biggest stars gathered for a night of celebration and recognition. O’Brien’s return as host was highly anticipated following his successful debut in 2025, and he did not disappoint. His opening set was fast-paced and packed with punchlines, immediately setting an energetic and playful mood for the evening’s festivities.
O’Brien began by joking about the heightened security measures at the event, humorously suggesting that both opera and ballet enthusiasts were on high alert. This led into his playful ribbing of Timothée Chalamet, who had recently stirred controversy with comments that divided fans of these classical art forms. The comedian quipped, “I should mention security is extremely tight tonight. I’m told there are concerns about attacks from both the opera and ballet communities.” The camera cut to Chalamet, who appeared to enjoy the joke, sharing a laugh with the audience. O’Brien then added a clever twist, noting, “They’re just mad you left out jazz,” which drew even louder laughter and applause from the crowd.
This particular moment quickly became one of the most talked-about highlights from the opening monologue, with clips of the exchange circulating widely across social media platforms. It demonstrated O’Brien’s ability to tap into current cultural conversations while maintaining a lighthearted and entertaining atmosphere. His skillful balance of humor and respect helped set the tone for a ceremony that celebrated the art of film while acknowledging the broader cultural landscape.
Beyond his jokes about Chalamet and the arts, O’Brien also touched on the increasingly blurred lines between entertainment and politics. He warned the audience that the night might take a political turn, but reassured those who might feel uneasy with a humorous alternative. “I should warn you tonight could get political,” he said. “And if that makes you uncomfortable, there’s an alternate Oscars hosted by Kid Rock. It’s at the Dave and Buster’s down the street. Lots of tickets available.” This reference alluded to a recent conservative-led alternative halftime show during the Super Bowl, which had sparked considerable discussion and controversy. The joke was met with a mix of laughter and applause, reflecting the audience’s appreciation for O’Brien’s timely commentary.
As the monologue progressed, O’Brien shifted gears to honor the nominees and the films recognized at this year’s ceremony. He praised the cinematic achievements of the past year and playfully remarked on the graciousness typically displayed during acceptance speeches. “I’m always impressed by how gracious the winners are,” he noted. “When you win, you share the glory with your co-nominees, your team and your spouse.” With a mischievous grin, he added, “Honestly, I don’t know if I could do that.” This blend of admiration and humor helped to humanize the often glamorous and high-pressure world of awards shows.
The opening segment concluded with a surprise musical performance by renowned singer Josh Groban, transforming the monologue into a theatrical blend of comedy and song. This unexpected addition added a dynamic and festive element to the ceremony’s start, further engaging the audience and setting a celebratory tone for the night ahead.
Conan O’Brien’s role as host for the 2026 Oscars marks his second year leading the prestigious event. Following his well-received debut in 2025, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences officially confirmed his return last year, praising his ability to guide the evening with a perfect mix of humor, warmth, and respect for the art of filmmaking. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang commended O’Brien’s performance, highlighting how he skillfully balanced entertainment with reverence.
In addition to the Academy’s praise, Disney Television Group president Craig Erwich lauded O’Brien’s unique comedic style, describing his hosting as an unforgettable moment that captured the spirit of the Oscars flawlessly. Executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan expressed their excitement about continuing their collaboration with O’Brien, emphasizing their commitment to evolving the ceremony while celebrating the global impact of cinema.
O’Brien also took a moment to poke fun at the previous year’s ceremony, joking about his motivation to return as host. “The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars again is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” he quipped. Brody had set a record for the longest acceptance speech in Oscars history in 2025, speaking for an impressive five minutes and forty seconds after winning Best Actor. This lighthearted reference added a personal touch to O’Brien’s monologue, connecting the audience to memorable moments from past ceremonies.
Reflecting on the pressures and spontaneity involved in hosting such a high-profile event, O’Brien revealed that many jokes were adjusted or improvised backstage during the live broadcast. “There are times you think you’ve got a good joke but decide not to do it,” he shared in an interview following last year’s Oscars. “We made a lot of changes backstage. Sometimes you think of something in the moment and just go with it.” Despite the challenges, he described the experience as a privilege and an honor, concluding with a humorous note about needing rest after the intense workload: “And now I’m really happy to sleep for two weeks.”
