Conan O’Brien Goes There with a Karla Sofía Gascón Joke in His Oscars 2025 Opening Monologue — and She Reacts

Conan O’Brien Kicks Off Oscars 2025 with Controversial Joke about Karla Sofía Gascón

Renowned comedian Conan O’Brien fearlessly took the stage on Sunday, March 2, to host the prestigious 2025 Oscars. In his opening monologue, O’Brien didn’t shy away from addressing the recent controversies surrounding Karla Sofía Gascón, a Best Actress nominee for her role in ‘Emilia Pérez.’ He quipped, “I loved Anora, I really did. Little fact for you, Anora uses the ‘F’ word 479 times. That’s three more than the record set by Karla Sofía Gascón’s publicist,” eliciting a mixed reaction from the audience.

During his monologue, O’Brien also acknowledged Gascón’s presence at the ceremony, as cameras captured the Emilia Pérez actress in the audience. Gascón, 52, sported a sophisticated single-shoulder, diamond-studded black dress for the occasion, making a bold statement with her attire. Despite skipping the red-carpet arrival, she made a notable appearance inside the star-studded Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles just before the show commenced.

Gascón’s journey to the Oscars had been marred by controversy following backlash over her past social media activity, where she faced criticism for comments on various sensitive topics. The Spanish actress had deactivated her X account and issued statements to address allegations of intolerance. Despite the backlash, Gascón continued to make history as the first openly transgender star to be nominated for Best Actress, portraying the titular role in ‘Emilia Pérez.’

As ‘Emilia Pérez’ emerged as the most-nominated film of the year with 13 nods, including a nomination for Best Picture, Gascón faced a significant spotlight on the industry’s most esteemed night. Her presence at the Oscars signified a moment of triumph and resilience amidst the challenges she had encountered in the lead-up to the event.

Hosting the Oscars for the first time, O’Brien reflected on the significance of the moment beyond entertainment glamour. Amid his preparations for the grand night, O’Brien shared his sentiments about his late parents, Dr. Thomas O’Brien and Ruth Reardon O’Brien, who passed away in December. He expressed how their legacy and support continued to inspire him, even on a night as momentous as the Oscars.

As the entertainment industry gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements in cinema, O’Brien emphasized his goal to uplift and honour the diverse talents contributing to the world of show business. Recognizing the efforts and dedication of individuals from various backgrounds, O’Brien highlighted the Oscars as a tribute to the collective passion and dedication within the industry.

Steering away from the glitz and glamour, O’Brien’s hosting stint aimed to infuse the ceremony with humour and authenticity, staying true to his comedic roots. With a meticulous approach to crafting jokes and a commitment to engaging with the nominated films, O’Brien’s presence added a unique flavour to the 97th annual Academy Awards, resonating with both audiences and industry insiders alike.

As the night unfolded with performances, awards, and memorable moments, O’Brien’s hosting debut marked a memorable chapter in Oscars history. Engaging with the heart of Hollywood’s most prestigious event, O’Brien brought his trademark wit and charm to the stage, leaving an indelible impression on the star-studded audience and viewers worldwide.