Conan O’Brien Steals the Show as Oscars Host With Self-Aware AI Jokes

Conan O’Brien Steals the Show as Oscars Host With Self-Aware AI Jokes
Conan O’Brien’s Memorable Oscars Hosting Moment
Cinema // Awards Night

CONAN O’BRIEN BRINGS HUMOR TO THE OSCARS

By Adrian Cole | Entertainment Editor | March 2026
EDITORIAL NOTE The 98th Academy Awards opened with laughter as comedian Conan O’Brien took the stage as host. Known for his sharp wit and playful self-deprecating humor, O’Brien quickly turned the ceremony’s opening minutes into one of the most entertaining segments of the evening.

A Self-Aware Opening Monologue

O’Brien began his monologue with a line that immediately set the tone for the night.

“I’m probably the last human being who will ever host the Oscars,” he joked, suggesting that next year the ceremony might be hosted by artificial intelligence or even a self-driving Waymo taxi.

The comment drew huge laughter from the audience, reflecting Hollywood’s growing fascination with AI technology.

His joke also served as a playful commentary on how rapidly technology is changing the entertainment industry.

Playful Celebrity Roasts

No awards show opening would be complete without a few good-natured celebrity roasts.

O’Brien directed one of his most memorable jokes toward actor Timothée Chalamet, teasing the young star about his dramatic film roles and ever-changing hairstyles.

The camera quickly cut to Chalamet laughing along with the audience.

A Surprise Comedy Sketch

One of the night’s most unexpected moments came when O’Brien briefly disappeared from the stage during his opening segment.

Moments later he returned in costume, dressed as the fictional character “Aunt Gladys,” a playful reference to one of the films nominated during the ceremony.

The unexpected transformation triggered one of the loudest bursts of laughter of the evening.

The sketch demonstrated O’Brien’s signature comedic style, blending absurd humor with classic late-night television timing.

Why Conan Was the Perfect Host

Hollywood awards ceremonies have faced increasing pressure in recent years to remain entertaining while also acknowledging the evolving film industry.

O’Brien’s ability to balance humor, cultural commentary and genuine respect for filmmaking made him a strong choice for the role.

Throughout the night, his quick improvisations and playful interactions with nominees kept the atmosphere relaxed and energetic.

A Memorable Night of Entertainment

By the time the ceremony concluded, Conan O’Brien’s performance had become one of the most talked-about aspects of the evening.

His jokes about artificial intelligence, celebrity culture and Hollywood itself reminded audiences that even on cinema’s most prestigious night, laughter still plays a central role.

Where cinema, culture and comedy meet on the world’s biggest stage.

ScentLab33 Entertainment Editorial