Epstein Joke At Oscars 2026: Conan O’Brien Takes Aim At Donald Trump During Opening Monologue

Conan O'Brien's Oscars monologue connected Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein, provoking strong audience reactions in the Dolby Theatre and widespread online clips. The moment sparked discussion about past ties and media coverage surrounding Epstein and high-profile figures.

Conan O'Brien used the opening monologue at the 98th Academy Awards to fire a pointed joke at US President Donald Trump, linking the remark to Jeffrey Epstein. The mix of political humour and sharp commentary drew loud reactions inside the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

The line, delivered during the Oscars telecast from Ovation Hollywood, quickly spread online. Viewers clipped the joke and shared it widely, turning O'Brien's monologue into one of the night’s most discussed segments across social media platforms within minutes of broadcast.

Conan O'Brien Oscars joke ties Trump to Epstein

O'Brien began by talking about this year’s acting races and highlighted that no British performer received a nomination in the Best Actor category. From there, the late-night host shifted into a darker punchline that brought in Epstein and drew audible gasps from parts of the audience.

Before delivering the full line, O'Brien suggested the United Kingdom seemed to be 'one or two steps ahead' regarding Epstein. Then O'Brien said, "That there are no British actors nominated for Best Actor or Best Actress. Yeah, a British spokesperson said, yeah, well, at least we arrest our pedophiles," prompting a mix of laughter and shock in the hall.

Conan O'Brien joke references UK arrests and Trump links

The reference tapped into recent developments in the United Kingdom. Andrew Windsor, formerly known as Prince Andrew, and former UK ambassador to the United States Peter Mandelson were arrested in February. Authorities took both into custody over alleged misconduct linked to their periods in public office and their past association with Epstein.

Trump has long faced scrutiny over social links to Epstein, after being photographed with the financier at several events. President Trump has consistently denied any deeper connection and has not been charged in relation to Epstein's crimes, but O'Brien’s Oscars joke reignited debate around those past ties.