Conan O'Brien jabs Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos in Oscars 2026 opening monologue - Check Video

Conan O'Brien brought his trademark wit to the stage during the opening monologue of the Academy Awards 2026, taking a playful jab at Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos on Sunday night. The comedian joked about the growing influence of streaming platforms in Hollywood, poking fun at how Netflix has become a dominant force in the film industry. The remark drew laughter from the audience inside the Dolby Theatre and quickly gained attention online. O’Brien’s lighthearted dig highlighted the ongoing shift from traditional studios to streaming giants, a topic that has become increasingly central to the Oscars conversation in recent years.


"Netflix CEO Ted Sarandos is here and this is exciting. It is his first time in a theater," Conan joked.


"This is what they’re talking about! ‘Why are they all here together enjoying themselves? They should be home alone where I can monetize it!!!" Conan further said.

Sarandos seems to have a good sense of humor as he took the joke in good spirits, bursting into loud laughter.

Early in his monologue, Conan also joked that he could end up being the last human host of the ceremony.

"I am Conan O’Brien and I am honored to be the last human host of the Academy Awards," O’Brien said after taking the stage at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood for the 98th edition of the ceremony. "Next year it’s going to be a Waymo in a tux."


After earning strong reviews for his hosting debut last year, O’Brien - the 62-year-old former writer for Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons, longtime talk show host, and podcaster - was quickly rehired.