At the 97th Academy Awards held on March 2, 2025, Conan O’Brien made his debut as the host, delivering a night filled with humor and poignant commentary. One particular moment stood out when O’Brien made a veiled jab at former President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, eliciting significant reactions from the audience.
The Provocative Quip
During the ceremony, the film “Anora” had already secured multiple awards, including Best Editing and Best Original Screenplay. Acknowledging its success, O’Brien remarked:
“Anora is having a good night. That’s great news. Two wins already. I guess Americans are excited to see somebody finally stand up to a powerful Russian.”
This comment was met with audible gasps, followed by resounding applause and cheers from the attendees. The audience’s reaction highlighted the remark’s resonance, especially given the political undertones.
Contextual Backdrop
O’Brien’s quip cleverly intertwined the plot of “Anora” with contemporary geopolitical dynamics. The film narrates the story of a young sex worker from Brooklyn, portrayed by Mikey Madison, who marries the son of a Russian oligarch, leading to confrontations with her powerful in-laws. This storyline metaphorically mirrors real-world tensions involving powerful Russian figures.
The timing of O’Brien’s joke coincided with recent political events. Just days before the Oscars, a tense meeting took place between President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, during which Trump accused Zelensky of “gambling with World War III.” This meeting underscored the strained relations and differing approaches to Russian aggression in Eastern Europe.
Public and Media Reactions
O’Brien’s subtle critique did not go unnoticed. Social media platforms buzzed with praise for his audacity and wit. Many users lauded the joke as the highlight of the evening, with comments like “Conan still the absolute best” and “Perfect #maga’s about to have a meltdown.”
Media outlets also highlighted the significance of the joke. Newsweek reported that O’Brien’s comment was “met with laughter and cheers from the crowd of celebrities,” emphasizing its impact on the live audience.
O’Brien’s Hosting Approach
Throughout the evening, O’Brien balanced humor with sensitivity. While he largely steered clear of overt political commentary, his well-placed jabs, such as the one referencing Trump and Putin, showcased his ability to address current affairs without overshadowing the celebratory nature of the event. His hosting debut was marked by a mix of lightheartedness and incisive observations, resonating with both the live audience and viewers at home.
Conclusion
Conan O’Brien’s inaugural stint as the Oscars host will be remembered not just for his comedic flair but also for his courage to infuse political commentary into his monologue. By drawing parallels between the fictional narrative of “Anora” and real-world geopolitical tensions, O’Brien provided a moment of reflection amidst the glamour, highlighting the enduring power of art to mirror and critique society.
