Home News "Conan O'Brien Exposes Bizarre Oscar Statue Rules for Promos"

"Conan O'Brien Exposes Bizarre Oscar Statue Rules for Promos"

by Violet Apr 10,2025

In a surprising twist in entertainment news, former Oscars host Conan O'Brien shared an intriguing tale about his creative pitches for promotional ads for the Academy Awards. During a recent episode of his podcast, "Conan Needs a Friend," O'Brien detailed how the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences rejected his humorous concepts involving a 9-foot tall Oscar statue.

Keep that Oscar upstanding. Photo by Patrick T. Fallon / AFP.
O'Brien envisioned a series of ads where he and the Oscar statue were depicted as a domestic couple. One particular idea involved the statue lounging on a large couch while O'Brien humorously asked it to lift its feet or help with household chores like loading the dishwasher. However, the Academy firmly declined these ideas, insisting that the Oscar statue must never be portrayed horizontally.

O'Brien expressed his astonishment at the Academy's strict rules, likening the Oscar to a sacred relic. He also mentioned another rejected concept where the statue, dressed in an apron, served him leftovers. The Academy's response was clear: the Oscar must always remain "naked" and upright.

These peculiar regulations from the Academy might seem overly rigid, but they underscore the organization's commitment to maintaining the dignity and iconic status of the Oscar statue. Despite the Academy's decisions, fans of O'Brien's wit and humor are left hoping for more of his creative flair in future Oscars ceremonies. Many are already rooting for him to return as host in 2026, eager to see what other comedic gems he might bring to the stage.

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45 ImagesWhile the Academy's stance on the Oscar statue might seem baffling, it's a reminder of their stringent control over their brand. As for O'Brien, his fans remain hopeful for more of his unique comedic touch at future awards shows.