At the Oscars, Conan O’Brien, returning as host for the second time, used his opening monologue to deliver a pointed joke about Timothée Chalamet. The jab came after Chalamet made controversial remarks in an interview, where he stated that no one is interested in opera or ballet as art forms anymore. These comments sparked outrage within the opera and ballet communities globally, with many criticizing Chalamet for not supporting these traditional art forms.

O’Brien's quip was expected, given the ongoing discussions and criticisms surrounding Chalamet. He humorously mentioned the tight security at the event due to potential threats from the opera and ballet communities, creating a comedic connection between the night's festivities and the recent uproar caused by Chalamet's statements. The camera captured the young actor laughing in the front row, highlighting both the tension and the humor of the moment.

This exchange underscores the cultural dialogues surrounding the arts and their representation in popular media. As O'Brien played on the controversy, it reflected the current sentiment toward Chalamet's abilities to navigate the fallout from his comments, making a noteworthy moment amid the glamour of the Oscars.