Conan O’Brien recently opened up about his experience hosting the Oscars on his SiriusXM podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend. He shared behind-the-scenes stories that highlight the challenges and surprises that came with the job.
O’Brien described how he was asked to host the Oscars unexpectedly in late November, just as he returned from filming in Spain. He considered it an unusual opportunity, joking that it felt like being asked to be the new Miss America due to the timing and pressure involved.
His journey to the stage wasn’t easy. After accepting the role, he faced a series of tragedies. He lost both of his parents within days of each other, and then he dealt with evacuating his home due to wildfires in Los Angeles. Despite these difficulties, he shared that working hard on material for the show made the experience enjoyable.
One notable segment that didn’t make it to air involved him donning green paint to spoof Wicked. The idea was to transition from one film to another while still appearing green on stage. However, time constraints and a shift in direction meant this sketch was ultimately cut. The Academy preferred to feature a musical tribute instead, showcasing stars like Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
The Academy had specific rules for the telecast, which O’Brien humorously recounted. For instance, they insisted that the Oscar statue can never be horizontal or wear clothing. He described wanting to create a bit where the Oscar was portrayed as a lazy roommate, but the Academy declined, emphasizing their dedication to preserving the statue’s iconic image.
O’Brien also shared a memorable backstage encounter with Mick Jagger, who expressed his nervousness about performing. This moment reminded O’Brien that even seasoned performers worry about their audiences.
In terms of humor, O’Brien credited one of his writers, Skyler Higley, for a joke that went viral during the show, referencing the rivalry between rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar. This moment resonated with audiences, showing the connection between pop culture and live performances.
While reflecting on his time at the Oscars, O’Brien humorously noted that the lighting made him look better than ever. He jokingly addressed online speculation about cosmetic work, attributing his appearance to the show’s fantastic lighting.
In light of this year’s Oscars, it’s interesting to ponder how awards shows continue to evolve. According to a recent survey by the Hollywood Reporter, viewership for award shows has been declining, leading to changes in format and presentation to engage younger audiences. This year’s Oscars featured notable performances and a renewed focus on inclusivity, showing that the show must adapt to keep relevance.
For more insights, you can listen to the full podcast episode here.
Check out this related article: Tragic Loss: ‘American Idol’ Star Douglas Kiker Passes Away at 32 – Remembering His Journey and Impact
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