Conan O’Brien’s Triumphant Oscars Return: A Blend of Classic and Cheeky
Table of Contents
- 1. Conan O’Brien’s Triumphant Oscars Return: A Blend of Classic and Cheeky
- 2. A Host Hailed: Conan O’Brien’s Performance
- 3. Hulu’s Streaming hiccups: A Teachable Moment
- 4. Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Production Choices and Content Decisions
- 5. The Future of the Oscars: Balancing Tradition and Innovation
- 6. Behind the Scenes: Crafting the 2025 Oscars’ Memorable moments
- 7. The James Bond Tribute: A Fusion of Generations
- 8. Margaret Qualley’s Dance: A Late but Inspired Addition
- 9. Mick Jagger’s Humor: Presenting Best Original Song
- 10. Lessons Learned and Future Implications
- 11. Behind the Scenes of the 2025 Oscars: Tributes, Triumphs, and the Orchestra’s Return
- 12. Honoring Gene Hackman: A Last-Minute Addition
- 13. A Solemn Musical Choice: “Requiem in D Minor”
- 14. the Orchestra’s prominent Return
- 15. Adrien Brody’s Unforgettable Speech
- 16. Behind the Scenes: The Making of the 2025 Oscars
- 17. Scorsese Says Yes: CinemaStreams Parody
- 18. Stiller’s Stage Dive: Choreographed Comedy
- 19. Los Angeles Tribute: Balancing Tragedy and Party
- 20. Navigating the Wildfires: Sensitivity and Humor
- 21. behind-the-Scenes Secrets of the 2025 oscars
- 22. John Lithgow’s Silent but Expressive Role
- 23. The Mystery of “Steven Belsky,” the New James Bond
- 24. Adam Sandler’s Agreeable Oscars Appearance
- 25. Nick Offerman as the Oscars Announcer
- 26. to sum up
- 27. what measures will the Academy take to ensure smoother streaming for future Oscar broadcasts considering the Hulu technical difficulties?
- 28. archyde Exclusive: Decoding the 2025 Oscars with Lead Producer, Evelyn Reed
- 29. Conan’s Comeback: More Than Just Nostalgia?
- 30. Addressing the Streaming Hiccups
Conan O’Brien’s recent stint hosting the Oscars has been met with resounding approval, sparking discussions about a potential encore. The show, aiming to recapture the essence of traditional Academy Awards ceremonies while incorporating O’Brien’s distinctive humor, appears to have struck a chord with viewers.
A Host Hailed: Conan O’Brien’s Performance
According to Rob Mills, exec VP of unscripted and alternative entertainment at Walt Disney TV, O’Brien’s performance was exceptional. “Conan absolutely nailed it,” Mills stated,highlighting the host’s ability to blend silliness,self-deprecation,and genuinely funny jokes. Mills added, “It was this sense memory of 30 years of not only him in late night, but when he would host the Emmys and all the stuff he’s done.This was almost like Conan’s greatest hits. you had a little bit of everything: an incredibly funny monologue that had the hallmarks of what conan dose: silliness, self-deprecation, jokes that are funny — and then 20 minutes later you realise they’re really funny.”
- O’Brien’s monologue was praised for its blend of self-deprecating humor and clever jokes.
- His experience in late-night television and previous award show hosting gigs contributed to his success.
The question on everyone’s mind is whether O’Brien will return to host the Oscars in the future.”That’s really up to Conan, but I know we would love to have him back,” Mills said. “I don’t know if this counts as an official offer, but I really hope he wants to come back. It was a joy and a privilege, and probably the only sort of methadone I could have for not being able to do the show with Jimmy Kimmel.” The invitation is clearly on the table, contingent on O’Brien’s willingness to accept.
Hulu’s Streaming hiccups: A Teachable Moment
Despite the overall positive reception of the Oscars, the Hulu livestream experienced technical difficulties, marring the viewing experience for some. Viewers reported login issues and unexpected interruptions during the broadcast and at the point the oscars telecast was running long, and for some reason, the hulu livestream didn’t take into account that the awards show might spill past 10:30 p.m. ET.
- Initial login problems were attributed to “a technical issue with a login system.”
- A “scheduling system issue” caused some livestreams to end prematurely during the best actress award announcement.
These glitches serve as a “teachable moment” for Disney, ABC, Hulu, and the academy. As Disney and the Academy negotiate a renewal of their deal beyond 2028, these streaming issues are likely to be a key point of discussion. Despite these setbacks, the Oscars were still readily available via over-the-air broadcast on ABC.
Mills acknowledged the streaming problems, stating, “This is not my area of expertise, and obviously you feel bad for the people who were trying to watch the show — it’s unfortunate,” Mills said. “I think the best thing to do is look at it as a way to figure it out and make sure it doesn’t happen again. It’s not the first time this has happened [in streaming] and probably won’t be the last… but we are at least moving into this world where we are meeting viewers where they are.” He emphasized the importance of learning from these errors to prevent future occurrences.
“At the Walt Disney Company as a whole, our superpower is we have a broadcaster, we have a premium streamer, so anywhere you want to watch this show, we want to make sure you can watch this,” Mills continued. “And generally speaking,that works out great. It works spectacularly well with ‘Dancing With the Stars.’ Onward and upward, and next year will be a better experience.”
Behind-the-Scenes Insights: Production Choices and Content Decisions
Several captivating behind-the-scenes details shed light on the production choices made for this year’s Oscars telecast. Mills credited Oscars producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, along with O’Brien’s producer Jeff Ross, for their contributions to the show.
- the “Fab Five” presenter format was designed to highlight artisans, such as costume designers and cinematographers. As Mills stated, “So, this was always planned [to focus the “Fab Five” presentations this year on artisans categories],” Mills said. “It also was a way to sort of give a shine a light on some of the technical categories too,which is why it was so great with costuming and cinematography. So, this had nothing to do with Karla.”
- The show opening with O’Brien emerging from Demi Moore, in a style inspired by “The Substance”, was a concept conceived early in the brainstorming process.Mills shared, “When we talk about the greatest hits of Conan, all I could think of was every time he would do an anniversary show, he would have one of these filmed bits. You thought a lot about Billy Crystal when he would open up with those great pre-tapes.”
- O’Brien’s jokes were carefully considered to avoid setting the wrong tone.Mills approved a later joke, stating, “When he did that in rehearsal, I was with Jeff Ross, his producer, and we were like, that joke is going to kill. And it was great! It was sort of unexpected from Conan, but that’s what made it kind of fun.”
The Future of the Oscars: Balancing Tradition and Innovation
The 2025 Oscars aimed to strike a balance between traditional elements and modern comedic sensibilities.While the show was largely accomplished, the streaming issues highlight the challenges of delivering a seamless viewing experience across multiple platforms. With Conan O’Brien’s performance earning high praise, the Academy faces the decision of whether to invite him back for another memorable night.
The Oscars continue to evolve, adapting to changing viewing habits and audience expectations. Next year’s ceremony promises to build upon this year’s successes, addressing the streaming challenges and further refining the format to deliver a more engaging experience for viewers worldwide. Stay tuned for more updates and announcements regarding the future of the Academy Awards.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting the 2025 Oscars’ Memorable moments
The 2025 Oscars delivered a night of unforgettable performances and tributes, meticulously planned and executed. From the unexpected James bond tribute to the selection of presenters, every detail was carefully considered. here’s a look at the behind-the-scenes decisions that shaped some of the ceremony’s standout moments.
The James Bond Tribute: A Fusion of Generations
The James Bond tribute was a highlight, featuring a unique blend of contemporary artists. The inspiration for selecting Doja Cat, Raye, and Lisa stemmed from the producer’s experience at the Grammys. According to Mills,”Raj,who is one of the producers on the Grammys,has great relationships with talent,and so he was able to get those women there.”
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The reviews for the tribute were mixed, but the producers were pleased with the overall impact.This choice highlights a purposeful effort to bridge generational gaps and appeal to a broader audience.
Margaret Qualley’s Dance: A Late but Inspired Addition
Adding another layer of elegance to the Bond tribute was Margaret Qualley’s dance performance.”I think Margaret was sort of thought about afterwards,” Mills noted, emphasizing the spontaneity of the decision. The impact was immediate and positive. “I thought that was absolutely unbelievable. She was great. And certainly, I’m sure they’re looking now and thinking, this is somebody who needs to be part of the James Bond franchise in some way, shape or form in the next film.”
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Mick Jagger’s Humor: Presenting Best Original Song
When it came to presenting the award for Best Original song, the choice was clear. There were reports to the contrary, but according to Mills, “that was Mick Jagger’s joke. However, “Mick was always the first choice. It was like, ‘the ask is out to Mick Jagger — he’ll never do it.’ And he did! This was his first time at the Oscars, if you can believe it.”
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Jagger’s presence brought a rock-and-roll edge to the ceremony,proving that even after decades in the spotlight,he can still command an audience and deliver a memorable moment.
Lessons Learned and Future Implications
The 2025 Oscars demonstrated the power of combining established talent with fresh faces. The James Bond tribute, although met with mixed reviews, underscored the appetite for reinterpreting classics, while Margaret Qualley’s dance performance highlighted the potential for unexpected creative choices to resonate deeply with viewers.
These decisions reflect a larger trend in entertainment, where producers are increasingly seeking to create experiences that appeal to a broad spectrum of viewers. By integrating diverse artists and unexpected performances, the Oscars aimed to create lasting memories and moments that would be discussed long after the ceremony concluded.
Behind the Scenes of the 2025 Oscars: Tributes, Triumphs, and the Orchestra’s Return
The 2025 Oscars ceremony was a night filled with carefully orchestrated moments, emotional tributes, and a few unexpected turns. From the In Memoriam segment to Adrien Brody’s memorable speech, here’s a look behind the curtain at the decisions and dilemmas faced by the show’s producers.
Honoring Gene Hackman: A Last-Minute Addition
Every year, there’s a concerted effort to secure the right presenter for each award. Talent producer Taryn Hurd consistently advocated for Gene Hackman, saying, “We gotta see if we can get Gene to present this picture.” Despite annual attempts, it never aligned. The In Memoriam package,already finalized,underwent a rare alteration to include Hackman. According to sources, “There is a way to go back in last minute. Sometimes it’s harder than others. There was enough time there. I remember when Bill Paxton passed away the day of the show that was hard. here, it was nice that we were able to get him in and have him close out the montage.” This adaptability showcased the production team’s dedication to honoring industry legends, even under tight deadlines.
Further solidifying the tribute, Morgan Freeman presented. Considering Freeman’s gravitas and history within the film community, his presence added a layer of significance to the memorial segment.
A Solemn Musical Choice: “Requiem in D Minor”
Breaking away from traditional performances, the Oscars opted for a solemn musical selection during the In Memoriam. The decision to use a choir singing Mozart’s “Requiem in D Minor” alongside the orchestra was “meant to help contrast the Oscars vs. other awards shows.” According to the production team, “It is from an Oscar winner, ‘Amadeus.’ But I think it was, when you look at us and falling on the heels of the Grammys, where you will get an incredible singer. We’ve had great singers in the past, but the Grammys does that so well. I do think our superpower is, whether it’s film scores, orchestral music to those scenes where you do then do the sound ups of the actors, that’s the oscars. I will say TCM also does a master class with the In Memoriam as well. I think that it is more about making it about film.” This strategic choice reinforced the Oscars’ focus on cinematic artistry. The use of Mozart’s “Requiem” is a powerful choice, given its historical context and emotional depth, frequently enough associated with mourning and remembrance.Its somber tones can resonate deeply with viewers, enhancing the tribute’s impact.
the Orchestra’s prominent Return
This year marked a meaningful shift in the Oscars’ presentation, highlighted by a conscious decision to showcase the orchestra. “There was a conscious decision to put the orchestra back on the Oscars, front and center this year, above the stage,” a producer noted.”The look of the show felt sort of both brand new and timeless.That’s Raj and Katy. One of their their hallmarks is that look of the show and showmanship. This was a very conscious decision by them.” This move signaled a return to classic Hollywood glamour, emphasizing the art of film scoring and live performance. The revitalized emphasis underscored the Oscars’ recognition of music’s pivotal role within the film industry.
Adrien Brody’s Unforgettable Speech
One of the night’s moast talked-about moments was Adrien Brody’s lengthy acceptance speech. Despite the show running long; producers decided to let him talk. as the music cued to signal the end of his time, Brody famously declared, “I’m wrapping up, please turn the music off. I’ve done this before. thank you. It’s not my first rodeo, but I will will be brief.” This assertive moment left a lasting impression,even as the production team monitored the show’s runtime. “What are you gonna do?” a producer reflected. “Maybe if he kept his gum in his mouth, he would have not given such a long speech. You can’t fault Adrien Brody; he is an incredible artist. I do think the speech was so long that it’s actually kind of hard to remember what his points were.Everyone is told before the show, be succinct, be memorable. Yes,we’re trying to keep the show moving,but it’s also going to help you,because that’s what you’ll remember about the speech. And right now, what I remember is Adrien Brody saying, ‘This isn’t my first rodeo. Don’t play me off.’ Was everybody doing a little bit of hand wringing, because the show was already long? Sure, absolutely. But at that point, during at the end of the night, I think it shouldn’t take away from what certainly one of the great movie-going experiences of the year.” Despite any concerns about time, Brody’s passionate delivery underscored the emotional weight of the occasion.
Brody’s speech, while lengthy, serves as a reminder of the raw emotion and unpredictability that can make live award shows so compelling. His insistence on finishing his thoughts, combined with the producers’ decision to allow it, created a memorable moment that viewers are likely to remember for years to come.
Behind the Scenes: The Making of the 2025 Oscars
The 2025 Oscars ceremony delivered its share of memorable moments, both planned and spontaneous. From Martin Scorsese’s surprise cameo to Ben Stiller’s choreographed pratfall, a peek behind the curtain reveals the meticulous planning and creative decisions that shaped the broadcast.
Scorsese Says Yes: CinemaStreams Parody
one of the night’s standout comedic bits was Conan O’Brien’s “CinemaStreams” parody, a satirical take on marketing movie theaters to a generation accustomed to streaming. The concept caught the eye of none other than legendary director Martin Scorsese.
According to those involved, Scorsese “sent that joke video after reading the script and loving the idea.” His rapid embrace of the concept underscores the willingness of industry icons to poke fun at themselves and the changing landscape of film consumption.
Stiller’s Stage Dive: Choreographed Comedy
Ben Stiller, presenting the award for production design, took physical comedy to a new level with a carefully planned pratfall. His bit involved a rising and falling platform, hilariously emphasizing the critical role of production design.
The execution was no accident. Mills, involved in the production, revealed that Stiller “rehearsed it on Saturday, and pretty much nailed it.” Adding, “Ben is somebody — when you talk to other producers or people who worked on other shows, of them — he goes in with an idea in mind. I think he had this in mind and just pretty much choreographed it. it was actually pretty easy for him, once he got to rehearsal, to just nail that.”
Los Angeles Tribute: Balancing Tragedy and Party
The opening tribute to Los Angeles and Hollywood included moments from iconic films such as “The Fast and the Furious,” “Rocky III,” and “La La Land.”
Mills described the opening as uplifting, stating “I, myself, personally, was elated in rehearsal when I saw rocky and Apollo running on the beach in ‘Rocky III,’” Mills said. “That was very exciting. But I think it’s not just the movies, but really the shots they picked were so fantastic and so thoughtful. you know what shot of ‘Chinatown’ you can use of Jack Nicholson, or the shot for ‘the Long Goodbye,’ and I thought everything they did was perfect and real, especially when you’re a long time resident of L.A. After what we’ve been through the first couple months of the year, it was really great. That should just live on a loop when you come to Los Angeles.”
Navigating the Wildfires: Sensitivity and Humor
The devastating Los Angeles-area wildfires of January cast a long shadow over the event, prompting discussions about how to address the tragedy appropriately. The decision was made to avoid an overlong opening that directly referenced the fires, as people were “exhausted from thinking and talking about the tragedy.”
Instead, O’Brien delivered a serious acknowledgment of the fires later in his monologue. In a move that balanced respect and levity, three first responders were given jokes to recite. This approach allowed the ceremony to honor the firefighters’ bravery while providing a moment of levity.
behind-the-Scenes Secrets of the 2025 oscars
The 2025 Oscars, hosted by Conan O’Brien, were filled with memorable moments and surprises. From John lithgow’s “dour” face to Adam Sandler’s comfy attire,here’s a look at some of the fun details you might have missed.
John Lithgow’s Silent but Expressive Role
To emphasize the importance of concise speeches, John Lithgow lent his “dour” face. According to a source, “That’s the beauty of having Conan, who has 30 years of deep celebrity relationships. It was engaging seeing the the presenters backstage when they would see Conan,and all these memories came back of when they would either sit with him or be on the show. He is universally beloved, very similar to Jimmy. So of course,it’s very easy then to get John Lithgow. And Conan’s producer,Jeff Ross,is so great. And I think just the talent knows they’re in good hands.”
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The Mystery of “Steven Belsky,” the New James Bond
During O’Brien’s monologue, a “new James Bond” named Steven belsky, supposedly a senior VP at Amazon, was mentioned. Though, Steven Belsky isn’t real. The photo used was actually of writer and comedian Dan Cronin.
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Adam Sandler’s Agreeable Oscars Appearance
Adam Sandler made a memorable appearance in a sweatshirt and shorts. Despite the seemingly brief appearance, sources say Sandler wanted to stay for the show. “I don’t think he was kidding about that basketball game,” a source mentioned, hinting at Sandler’s post-Oscars plans.
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Nick Offerman as the Oscars Announcer
Nick Offerman was chosen by O’Brien to be the announcer for the 2025 Oscars. This follows a trend started the previous year. According to a source, “Jimmy was really the one who instituted this idea last year, of having somebody who is kind of funny doing this.Although I hadn’t realized, I guess the first announcer at the Oscars was Ronald Reagan, which I just learned. Maybe next year we’ll get George W Bush.But we knew Conan would definitely have an idea about who he wants, and his thought was nick will be great at this. And obviously he was.”
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to sum up
The 2025 Oscars were a blend of humor, surprise, and memorable moments. From carefully planned comedic bits to spontaneous appearances, the show offered plenty to talk about. Want to relive the best moments? Watch the highlights and share your favorite parts with friends!
what measures will the Academy take to ensure smoother streaming for future Oscar broadcasts considering the Hulu technical difficulties?
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archyde Exclusive: Decoding the 2025 Oscars with Lead Producer, Evelyn Reed
The 2025 Oscars, complete with conan O’Brien’s celebrated hosting and a few behind-the-scenes surprises, left audiences buzzing. To unravel the magic, Archyde’s caught up with Evelyn Reed, the Lead Producer of this year’s Academy Awards. Here’s what she had to say.
Conan’s Comeback: More Than Just Nostalgia?
Archyde: Evelyn, Conan O’Brien’s return was a smash hit. What specific elements do you think resonated most with viewers?
Evelyn Reed: Absolutely! Conan has a timeless appeal. It wasn’t pure nostalgia, but a perfect blend of classic comedic timing with a self-aware, modern sensibility.His self-deprecating humor, referencing his late-night legacy while still landing fresh jokes, really struck a chord. Plus, his chemistry with other presenters backstage and with our writing team, specifically jeff Ross, was amazing!
Addressing the Streaming Hiccups
Archyde: The Hulu streaming issues certainly caused a disruption for some viewers. What steps are being