Conan O’Brien’s Oscars Ideas Shut Down by Strict Academy Rules
Conan O’Brien’s foray into hosting the 2025 Oscars was anything but conventional, as he recently revealed on his podcast, *Conan Needs a Friend*. The 61-year-old comedian, known for his sharp wit and irreverent humor, shared how his creative visions for the ceremony were hampered by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ rigid regulations surrounding their iconic Oscars statue. O’Brien’s whimsical idea of having the Oscar lounging on a couch was met with an emphatic “no” from the Academy, which insisted that “Oscar can never be horizontal.” This revelation left O’Brien bewildered, likening the Oscar to a “religious icon,” underscoring the reverence with which the Academy treats its symbol of cinematic achievement.
In a world where the Oscars are often criticized for being stuffy and tradition-bound, O’Brien’s humorous suggestions could have injected a refreshing dose of levity. Another of his concepts—depicting the Oscar as a housewife serving leftovers—was similarly shot down with the stark reminder that “Oscar is always naked.” This strict adherence to the statue’s presentation may come off as amusingly archaic, especially when compared to the more relaxed approaches seen in other award shows, such as the Golden Globes or the MTV Movie & TV Awards, where humor and parody are often embraced.
In addition to the Oscar-related antics, O’Brien also had to trim an extended version of a comedic opening sequence that included him donning green makeup for a *Wicked* tribute. The skit was intended to be a playful jab at various films, showcasing O’Brien’s knack for self-deprecating humor. However, logistical constraints forced him to condense what could have been a riotous homage to cinema.
Despite these hurdles, the 2025 Oscars still delivered memorable moments, including a heartfelt reunion between Adrien Brody and Halle Berry, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s stunning performance, and several unexpected celebrity pairings that kept audiences entertained. As the Oscars evolve, one must wonder if it’s time for the Academy to loosen its grip on tradition and embrace a more contemporary and humorous approach to celebrating the film industry. After all, in a landscape where memes and viral moments reign supreme, perhaps a little levity wouldn’t hurt.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and E! Online, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter
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