Conan O’Brien Takes Oscar Host Gig to Score Invite, Praises Billy Crystal & Jimmy Kimmel!

Conan O’Brien is set to emcee the Oscars this Sunday evening, humorously claiming that his real motive for accepting the role was simply to secure an invitation to the event.

At a media briefing for the 97th Academy Awards, the iconic former late-night host quipped, “The only reason I agreed to host was so they’d have to let me into the Oscars.”

He continued, “You might think I’m the ideal candidate for this. We’ll see about that.”

O’Brien playfully remarked that he might be “the best entertainer” the event organizers have ever collaborated with.

Following comments from the producers describing their experience with O’Brien as “extremely enjoyable,” he responded, “We’ll check back after Monday and see if you still feel that way.”

Describing the preparation process, O’Brien shared, “It’s been an absolute pleasure. The team behind the Oscars is exceptionally professional. They’re experts in their field and create remarkable events. It’s been an exciting journey for me, my head writer Mike Sweeney, and even my attorney.”

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One of the highlights for O’Brien is the tuxedo he will wear. He enthusiastically stated, “It’s the finest piece of clothing I’ve ever worn.” He mentioned that High Society tailored the tuxedo, emphasizing the importance of supporting local Los Angeles artisans. “It was crucial to choose someone local for this, and they’ve crafted a stunning tuxedo.”

O’Brien also humorously cited the “incredible lighting” at the Oscars as a reason for taking on the hosting job.

He joked, “I agreed to do this because I wanted to be a part of this magical production and finally have amazing lighting. Whenever people see me in public, they always say, ‘You look so much better in real life. What’s wrong with your TV appearance?’ Now’s my chance to shine, literally. Let’s make sure the lighting is perfect.”

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This year marks O’Brien’s first time hosting the Oscars. He has sought advice from past hosts like Billy Crystal and Jimmy Kimmel.

“He’s a legend and truly defined Oscar hosting,” O’Brien praised Crystal.

Regarding Kimmel, O’Brien shared a humorous anecdote about a dinner meeting where Kimmel chose an upscale restaurant, ordered many appetizers that O’Brien doesn’t eat, and left him with the bill. Meanwhile, Kimmel’s wife, Molly McNearney, offered valuable hosting tips. “Molly is the genius in that duo,” he added.

“They’ve both been incredibly supportive and helpful,” O’Brien noted about Kimmel and McNearney. “It’s refreshing to be in this new era of friendliness, which is very different from the late-night scene when I started. I really appreciate this camaraderie.”