Oscars Get Political?

Comedian Conan O’Brien surprised viewers during the opening of the 98th Academy Awards on Sunday night, briefly shifting away from jokes to reflect on what he described as uncertain and “chaotic” times around the world.

The longtime television host kicked off the ceremony in Los Angeles with several rapid-fire jokes before pausing to address the audience in a more serious tone.

“Tonight is an international event,” O’Brien told viewers as the annual Hollywood awards show officially began.

But the former late-night host quickly acknowledged that the world watching the ceremony is facing difficult circumstances.

“If I can be serious for just a moment,” O’Brien said, “people watching around the world know these are chaotic and sometimes frightening times.”

Oscars Highlight Global Collaboration

O’Brien suggested that events like the Academy Awards can serve as a reminder of what people are capable of achieving when they work together.

“At moments like this, the Oscars can feel especially meaningful,” he said.

The host emphasized the international nature of modern filmmaking, pointing out that movies recognized at the ceremony represent talent from around the world.

“This evening includes artists from 31 different countries across six continents,” O’Brien told the crowd.

“Every film we celebrate tonight represents thousands of people — individuals speaking different languages and coming from different cultures — working together to create something meaningful.”

Message Of Optimism During Uncertain Times

O’Brien said the awards ceremony represents more than just the movie industry.

According to him, it also reflects values that many people believe are increasingly important today.

“Tonight we honor not only film, but the ideals behind it,” he said. “Creativity, collaboration, patience, resilience — and something that feels rare these days: optimism.”

He ended the moment by encouraging viewers to remain hopeful.

“Let’s celebrate tonight,” O’Brien said, “not because everything is perfect, but because people continue to work and hope for a better future.”

Ceremony Takes Place During Global Tensions

The 2026 Oscars took place as the United States entered its second week of military conflict with Iran, creating a tense global backdrop for the international broadcast.

While O’Brien did not mention the conflict directly, his comments about uncertainty and resilience appeared to acknowledge the broader moment facing many countries.

Trump Has Frequently Criticized The Oscars

President Donald Trump has been a frequent critic of the Academy Awards over the years, often pointing to declining television ratings and accusing the show of becoming overly political.

During his opening monologue, O’Brien joked that politics might still make an appearance during the evening.

“I should warn everyone,” he told the audience with a smile, “tonight could get political.”

“And if that happens to make anyone uneasy,” he added with a grin, “there’s always an alternative Oscars event being hosted by Kid Rock.”

The comment referenced a recent counter-programming entertainment event connected to the Super Bowl that featured the rock musician and was supported by the conservative organization Turning Point USA.

Late Joke Appears To Reference Trump

Later in the broadcast, O’Brien appeared to make a joking reference involving President Trump while discussing venue names.

“We’re broadcasting live tonight from the ‘Has A Small Penis Theater,’” O’Brien joked. “Let’s see him try putting his name on that.”

The remark seemed to reference the decision last year to add Trump’s name to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C.

A Night Meant To Celebrate Film

Despite a few political jokes scattered throughout the evening, O’Brien’s overall message focused on the role entertainment can play during difficult times.

For millions watching around the world, the Academy Awards remain one of Hollywood’s biggest nights — a celebration of filmmaking, creativity, and the people behind the stories that reach audiences across the globe.