Oscars 2026: The 98th Academy Awards’ opening monologue had host Conan O’Brien deliver a sharp and playful opening monologue that poked fun at several Hollywood figures including Oscar nominee Timothée Chalamet. O’Brien who had returned to host the ceremony for the second time, wasted no time diving into awards-season controversies and pop-culture moments. One of his biggest targets was Chalamet, whose recent remarks about ballet and opera had stirred debate across various communities leading up to the ceremony.
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“Security is very tight tonight,” O’Brien joked early in his monologue at the Oscars 2026, adding, “There’s concerns about attacks from the ballet and opera communities.” Turning directly toward Chalamet in the audience, the comedian added, “They’re just mad you left out jazz.” The quip immediately drew laughter inside the theatre, and cameras caught the actor smiling and laughing along with the crowd.
O’Brien’s joke referenced a recent controversy involving Chalamet, who had faced backlash after suggesting during a discussion that art forms such as ballet and opera sometimes survive even when audiences no longer care about them. The remark went viral and drew criticism from performers and artists who argued that the centuries-old art forms remain vibrant and influential.
Chalamet, on his part was seen seated in the audience during the ceremony, Chalamet – nominated for his performance in Marty Supreme – was seen laughing at O’Brien’s joke.
As for O’Brien’s, the comedian continued his trademark roast-style humour by teasing Hollywood executives and media giants as well, at one point even joking about Ted Sarandos, the co-CEO of Netflix.
According to O’Brien, the Oscars might have been Sarandos’ “first time in a theatre.” Mimicking the streaming executive’s perspective, he quipped – “Why are they all together enjoying themselves? They should be home alone, where I can monetise it.” The joke drew cheers from the audience, especially in a year when debates about theatrical releases and streaming platforms remain central to the film industry.
The host also hinted that the ceremony might take a political turn, adding, “If that makes you uncomfortable,” he joked, “there’s an alternate Oscars hosted by Kid Rock. It’s at the Dave & Buster’s down the street.”
O’Brien had opened the ceremony with an elaborate pre-taped sketch where he appeared disguised as Aunt Gladys from the horror film Weapons, interrupting scenes from several Best Picture nominees while being chased by sinister children. The video then transitioned into a live moment at the Dolby Theatre as kids chased a stuntman through the audience, eventually leading to O’Brien’s onstage entrance in a tuxedo.
