Conan O’Brien hosted the Oscars for the second consecutive year on March 16, 2026, delivering a performance that resonated with both humor and social commentary. His opening monologue included a controversial joke about Jeffrey Epstein, referencing the absence of British actors nominated for major categories, a situation that had not occurred since 2012.
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 comment was met with nervous laughter from the audience, highlighting the tension surrounding the ongoing discussions about misconduct in Hollywood.
The backdrop of O’Brien’s humor included significant legal troubles for notable figures. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who served 22 years in the Royal Navy, was recently arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Meanwhile, Ghislaine Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence for her role in luring underage girls for Epstein.
In addition to his sharp political commentary, O’Brien also referenced Timothée Chalamet in a comedic roast during the ceremony, showcasing his ability to blend humor with current pop culture. His opening skit featured him dressed as Aunt Gladys from the film ‘Weapons’, further demonstrating his comedic versatility.
O’Brien expressed his gratitude for being part of the event, stating, “I’m honoured to be the last human host of the Academy Awards.” This remark was echoed by Academy Awards producer Rob Mills, who jokingly suggested that O’Brien could be the “host for life”.
The Oscars this year were marked by a mix of celebration and reflection on serious issues, with O’Brien’s hosting style serving as a bridge between entertainment and critical social commentary. As the evening progressed, the audience was reminded of the complexities surrounding the film industry and its figures.
King Charles III also made headlines with his statement regarding the investigations into misconduct, emphasizing the importance of a fair process. He remarked, “What now follows is the full, fair and proper process by which this issue is investigated in the appropriate manner and by the appropriate authorities.” This statement underscores the ongoing scrutiny faced by public figures.
As the dust settles from this year’s Oscars, the implications of O’Brien’s remarks and the surrounding controversies continue to resonate. The event not only celebrated cinematic achievements but also highlighted the pressing issues of accountability and justice within the industry.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the future hosting plans for the Oscars, but O’Brien’s performance has certainly set a high bar for any potential successors.
