The 97th Academy Awards had plenty of star power, but it was its host who stole the spotlight at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on March 2, 2025.
Conan O’Brien, making his Oscars hosting debut, delivered a joke about Kendrick Lamar and Drake that didn’t sit well with most viewers. Some called the quip a complete misstep, while others defended O’Brien’s signature brand of edgy humor.
Conan O’Brien speaks onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, on March 2, 2025 | Source: Getty Images
O’Brien’s attempt at humor at the Oscars became one of the night’s most talked-about moments. Midway through hosting the show, he quipped, “Well, we’re halfway through the show, which means it’s time for Kendrick Lamar to come out and call Drake a pedophile.”
The remark was met with a few scattered laughs and claps before O’Brien quickly followed up with, “Don’t worry, I’m lawyered up.” Social media quickly erupted with responses to O’Brien’s joke, with many viewers criticizing it as inappropriate and unnecessary.
One viewer remarked, “The crazy part was when the audience felt disgusted instead cheering.” Another user simply pointed out, “nobody’s laughing.” Disappointed, someone else wrote, “He literally ruined the night idc.” Another person who was shocked by the comment declared, “That’s crazy!”
Another viewer added, “Disrespect on another level. What happened to us 😔.” However, not everyone was critical. One fan found the moment entertaining, calling it the “Funniest moment of the show.” Another fan praised the host, “✨⭐️Conan is always hilarious 😂 ⭐️✨.”
As the fallout continues, many are debating whether the comedian’s first time hosting the Oscars will also be his last.
