The 2025 Academy Awards kicked off with a bang as legendary comedian and late-night host Conan O’Brien took center stage for his highly anticipated opening monologue. Known for his sharp wit and fearless humor, O’Brien didn’t hold back, taking jabs at Hollywood elites, industry politics, and some of the night’s biggest stars.
However, one particular joke about trans actor Karla Sofía Gascón has ignited a firestorm of reactions, with social media and the entertainment world now deeply divided over whether O’Brien crossed the line or simply delivered classic Oscar-night satire.
The joke in question came as O’Brien riffed on the night’s nominees, acknowledging Gascón’s presence at the awards. While the exact wording of his remark is already being debated, it was enough to send social media into a frenzy, with some praising his fearless comedy and others condemning it as inappropriate or insensitive.
Gascón, a respected performer known for breaking barriers in the film industry, remained composed in the moment, even offering a subtle smile as cameras captured her reaction. However, as the night went on, online discourse surrounding O’Brien’s comments grew more intense, with various Hollywood figures and activists weighing in on the controversy.
As expected, reactions to O’Brien’s joke have been divided along familiar cultural and political lines. Supporters of the comedian argue that the Oscars have always been a place for irreverent humor and that no nominee, regardless of background, should be considered off-limits.
They point out that past hosts—ranging from Ricky Gervais to Chris Rock—have built their reputations on roasting Hollywood’s elite, and that O’Brien simply carried on that tradition in his unique style.
Some have even suggested that the backlash is evidence of a growing lack of tolerance for comedy in modern Hollywood, where jokes are increasingly scrutinized through the lens of political and social correctness. “If we can’t laugh at ourselves, what’s the point?” one X (formerly Twitter) user posted, defending O’Brien’s remarks.
On the other side, critics argue that O’Brien’s joke targeted an already marginalized group and that the Oscars, a stage meant to celebrate diversity and inclusion, was not the appropriate place for such humor. Prominent voices in the entertainment industry have spoken out, with some calling for an apology while others have labeled the remark as an unnecessary distraction from what should have been a celebratory night for Gascón and other nominees.
This latest Oscars controversy is just another chapter in the event’s long history of headline-grabbing moments. From Will Smith’s infamous slap to political statements made by award winners, the Academy Awards has often found itself at the center of heated debates.
However, this incident raises larger questions about the evolving nature of humor in Hollywood. Can comedians still push boundaries, or has the industry become too sensitive?
Should award show hosts be held to different standards, or is satire an essential part of the Oscars experience?
As for O’Brien, the veteran comedian has not yet responded to the backlash, though given his long history in the entertainment industry, it’s unlikely that he will shy away from the controversy. Whether he addresses it in a humorous way or takes a more serious approach remains to be seen.
Despite the controversy, Gascón has handled the situation with grace, choosing not to immediately respond to the joke or fuel the discourse. Many of her supporters have commended her composure, praising her for focusing on the importance of representation and her accomplishments rather than engaging in the media frenzy.
Her presence at the Oscars was already historic, as she continues to pave the way for greater visibility and recognition for trans actors in major film roles. Regardless of the controversy, her career remains on an upward trajectory, with many in Hollywood rallying around her in support.
The fallout from O’Brien’s joke will likely continue in the coming days, with some calling for an apology while others insist that the outrage is overblown. The Academy itself has not issued a statement, but with Hollywood’s history of addressing controversies, it’s possible that pressure will mount for some form of response.
One thing is certain—this year’s Oscars will not be remembered solely for its winners and speeches but also for yet another controversy fueled by the ever-changing landscape of entertainment, humor, and cultural sensitivity.
