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Conan O'Brien Reflects on Hosting the 2025 Oscars and Scrapped Creative Ideas

The first-time Oscars host shared behind-the-scenes insights, including cut sketches, Academy restrictions, and personal challenges leading up to the event.

Host Conan O'Brien speaks onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre on March 02, 2025 in Hollywood, California.
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Oscars host Conan O'Brien speaks during the 97th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre on March 2, 2025 in Hollywood, California.
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Overview

  • Conan O'Brien revealed that his original Oscars opening, featuring a green-skinned parody of Best Picture nominees, was scrapped due to logistical challenges and the Los Angeles wildfires.
  • The Academy enforced strict rules about the Oscar statuette, rejecting a comedic promo where the statue was horizontal or dressed in clothing, citing its iconic status.
  • O'Brien shared personal struggles leading up to the event, including the loss of both parents within days and being displaced by wildfires in Los Angeles.
  • The Dune sandworm, which played a musical role during the telecast, was initially planned for a larger comedic presence, including presenting an award, but this idea was scaled back.
  • O'Brien praised the Oscars writing team and highlighted the success of viral jokes, while reflecting on the evolving nature of comedy during the lengthy awards season.