"I should warn you, tonight could get political. And if that makes you uncomfortable, there's an alternate Oscars hosted by Kid Rock at the Dave & Busters down the street."
"It's the first time since 2012 that there are no British actors nominated for Best Actor or Best Actress. A British spokesperson said, 'yeah but at least we arrest our pedophiles.'"
"These are very chaotic, frightening times, it's at moments like these I believe the Oscars are particularly resonant. 31 countries across 6 continents are represented. Let us celebrate not because all is well, but because we hope and work for better in the days ahead."
Conan O'Brien hosted the 98th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre on March 15, 2026, delivering an opening monologue that blended political satire with serious reflection. He joked about political discomfort by referencing an alternate Oscars hosted by Kid Rock at a Dave & Busters, made a pointed reference to arrests of pedophiles while commenting on the absence of British nominees in major acting categories, and concluded with a thoughtful acknowledgment of global turmoil. O'Brien emphasized the Oscars' significance during chaotic times, celebrating international artistry and collaboration while promoting ideals of resilience and optimism across 31 countries represented at the ceremony.
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