Conan O’Brien made a triumphant debut as Oscars host, bringing his signature wit and self-deprecating charm to a ceremony that celebrated the magic of cinema, the resilience of Los Angeles, and the legacy of Hollywood legends like Gene Hackman. This year’s Oscars felt like a return to form, focusing on the art of filmmaking while honoring the city and industry that make it all possible.
O’Brien’s sharp monologue, peppered with clever jokes and aided by surprise appearances from John Lithgow and an hilariously underdressed Adam Sandler, set the tone for a night that balanced humor with heartfelt moments. His ability to poke fun at himself and the industry while paying tribute to the hardworking people behind the scenes resonated deeply, especially in a year marked by challenges like the devastating wildfires and a divisive political climate.
The evening’s emotional core came during the In Memoriam segment, where Morgan Freeman delivered a moving eulogy for Gene Hackman, calling him a “giant” of cinema. Hackman’s recent passing, alongside his wife Betsy under still-unresolved circumstances, added a layer of poignancy to Freeman’s words, “Rest in peace, my friend,” which echoed through the Dolby Theatre.
The show also celebrated L.A.’s resilience, with firefighters who battled the January wildfires taking the stage to a bipartisan standing ovation. Their lighthearted jokes about The Joker 2, Timothée Chalamet’s singing, and O’Brien himself brought laughter and levity, reminding everyone of the city’s enduring spirit.
From Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s show-stopping performances to Sean Baker’s heartfelt Best Director win for Anora, the night was a testament to the power of storytelling and the communal experience of cinema. Even Netflix’s playful “CinemaStreams” skit, featuring Martin Scorsese, underscored the importance of theaters in an era dominated by streaming.
O’Brien’s hosting was a breath of fresh air, injecting energy into a ceremony that, while running long, never lost its momentum. His ability to connect with the audience, both in the room and at home, made this year’s Oscars a memorable celebration of film, L.A., and the legends who shaped Hollywood. As the Academy Awards inch closer to their 100th anniversary, this year’s show proved that the Oscars can still captivate—when they’re in the right hands.
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