Conan O’Brien roasts Timothée Chalamet in Oscars 2026 opening monologue

Conan O’Brien wasted no time bringing the laughs to the 2026 Oscars, kicking off the ceremony with a sharp monologue that included a playful jab at Timothée Chalamet and several jokes about recent pop culture controversies.

The comedian returned to host the 98th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, opening Hollywood’s biggest night with a fast-paced set that immediately set the tone for the evening.

O’Brien began by joking about security at the ceremony before turning his attention to Chalamet, referencing the actor’s recent comments that sparked debate among ballet and opera fans.

“I should mention security is extremely tight tonight,” O’Brien told the audience. “I’m told there are concerns about attacks from both the opera and ballet communities.”

The camera cut to Chalamet, who appeared to laugh along with the joke as the audience reacted.

“They’re just mad you left out jazz,” O’Brien added, drawing louder laughter from the theatre.

The moment quickly became one of the most talked-about jokes from the opening monologue as clips began circulating widely online.

O’Brien also jokes about politics and the Super Bowl

O’Brien continued his routine by poking fun at the growing overlap between entertainment and politics, warning the audience that the ceremony could turn political.

“I should warn you tonight could get political,” he said. “And if that makes you uncomfortable, there’s an alternate Oscars hosted by Kid Rock. It’s at the Dave and Buster’s down the street. Lots of tickets available.”

The line referenced a conservative-led alternative Super Bowl halftime event that took place last month following backlash to the official show during the NFL championship game.

The joke drew a mix of laughter and applause inside the theatre.

Musical moment closes the monologue

After roasting celebrities and referencing recent headlines, O’Brien shifted to celebrating the nominees and the films recognised at this year’s ceremony.

He praised the year in cinema and joked about the humility often displayed during acceptance speeches.

“I’m always impressed by how gracious the winners are,” he said. “When you win, you share the glory with your co-nominees, your team and your spouse.”

He then added with a grin: “Honestly, I don’t know if I could do that.”

The monologue ended with a surprise musical segment featuring singer Josh Groban, turning the opening into a theatrical performance that blended comedy with song.

Second year hosting the Oscars

The 2026 ceremony marks the second consecutive year O’Brien has hosted the Academy Awards after making his Oscars debut in 2025.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences confirmed his return last year, praising his performance as host.

Academy CEO Bill Kramer and president Janet Yang said O’Brien had been the perfect guide for the ceremony.

“Conan skillfully guided the evening with humour, warmth and reverence,” they said in a joint statement announcing his return.

Disney Television Group president Craig Erwich also praised O’Brien’s hosting style.

“Conan delivered an unforgettable performance at the Oscars,” he said. “His unique comedic voice captured the moment perfectly.”

Oscars executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan added that they were excited to continue working with the comedian as the ceremony continues to evolve.

“We are honoured to return for the 98th Oscars,” they said. “We look forward to working with Conan and celebrating the impact of film around the world.”

O’Brien jokes about Adrien Brody speech record

O’Brien also poked fun at the previous year’s ceremony while explaining why he agreed to host again.

“The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars again is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” he joked.

Brody set a record for the longest Oscars acceptance speech in history in 2025, speaking for five minutes and forty seconds after winning best actor.

Following last year’s broadcast, O’Brien revealed that many jokes during the ceremony were changed or improvised backstage.

“There are times you think you’ve got a good joke but decide not to do it,” he said in an interview after the event.

“We made a lot of changes backstage. Sometimes you think of something in the moment and just go with it.”

Despite the pressure of hosting Hollywood’s biggest awards show, O’Brien said the experience remained a privilege.

“It’s an honour to be asked to do it,” he said. “And now I’m really happy to sleep for two weeks.”