Conan O’Brien Discusses Oscars Restrictions on Jokes
Conan O’Brien has shared insights into the stringent rules surrounding the Oscars. During the March 13 episode of his podcast, "Conan Needs a Friend," the comedian discussed the do's and don’ts regarding Oscar statuette jokes.
O’Brien, who hosted the Oscars earlier this month, recalled an idea he had. "At one point, I thought, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if Oscar is just on the couch?’" He envisioned placing the statuette on a large couch while pretending to vacuum. He would say, "Could you at least lift your feet? Or could you at least get up and help? Load the dishwasher?"
However, O’Brien faced swift rejection from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. "One of the people from the Academy said, ‘Oscar can never be horizontal,’" he revealed. This statement left him astonished, comparing Oscar’s status to "the thigh bone of St. Peter." For him, it felt akin to addressing a religious icon.
Another skit proposed to depict Oscar as a housewife serving leftovers was also turned down. Despite these rejections, O’Brien revealed he adjusted many of his Oscars jokes shortly before the ceremony began.
He stated, "There are times you think, ‘We’ve got a good joke here, but it doesn’t feel right.’ We made many changes backstage." This last-minute adjustment was a blend of instinct and continual refinement. "You just decide, ‘Oh, this is a better joke,’ and if inspired in the moment, you go with it."
In his finalized monologue, O’Brien made jabs at Timothée Chalamet while Adam Sandler made a surprise appearance. He noted that preparing this performance was extensive. "The agony of before — preparation, getting ready — lasts for months," he commented. By the performance’s starting point, O’Brien was eager to entertain, appreciating the supportive crowd.
O’Brien comedically trolled Chalamet during the night. He jokingly remarked, "Timmy Chalamet is up for Best Actor tonight. You look amazing. You will not get hit on your bike tonight." This reference alluded to Chalamet previously getting fined for riding a bike to the London premiere of "A Complete Unknown."
He further quipped, "Safe! Amazing actor. Timothée is nominated for portraying Bob Dylan. Bob Dylan wanted to be here tonight but not that desperately."
Earlier, SSP wrote about Malika Haqq's emotional tribute to her son Ace on his 5th birthday.