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During the 2025 Academy Awards, one of the most unexpected moments of the night came not from an emotional speech or a breathtaking performance, but from a joke by Conan O’Brien. The comedian, known for his sharp and irreverent humor, made a remark that quickly became one of the most talked-about moments: a joke about Kendrick Lamar and Drake, suggesting that Lamar had called Drake a pedophile.
The joke, which was part of a segment where O'Brien humorously commented on the celebrity attendees, immediately sparked a reaction from the audience. "It seems Kendrick Lamar has some things to say about Drake, and they aren’t just the lyrics in his songs," O’Brien said in a playful tone, referencing the long-standing rivalry between the two artists.
While O’Brien attempted to diffuse any tension with his signature comedic style, the joke quickly divided opinions. Social media reactions were mixed: some fans laughed at O'Brien’s boldness, while others found the joke distasteful, considering the sensitive nature of the subject matter. Many questioned whether the joke was appropriate for such a high-profile event, viewed by millions around the globe.
Internal sources from the Academy and ABC, which broadcasted the ceremony, revealed that the joke didn’t go without hesitation. The production team and event organizers were concerned about the public’s reception, especially given the negative reaction it could provoke in today’s climate, which is more sensitive to respect and responsibility, particularly when it comes to public figures like Kendrick Lamar and Drake.
The rivalry between Kendrick Lamar and Drake, though widely recognized, has largely been framed as an artistic and professional conflict, rather than a personal one. Both stars have massive fan bases, and their occasional ego clashes have become a part of hip-hop culture. However, O’Brien's offhand remark crossed into a sensitive territory for many, creating an awkward moment at an event meant to celebrate cinematic art.
The joke raises important questions about the role of humor in culture and where the line is drawn between satire and offense. In a time when the "cancel culture" movement and increased awareness around hate speech are on the rise, there’s a fine line between making a daring joke and crossing into offensive territory.
However, it seems the incident didn’t lead to any major rifts between the two rappers, nor did it impact their careers. Neither Kendrick Lamar nor Drake publicly commented on the joke, and both continue to dominate the hip-hop scene. Ultimately, Conan O’Brien’s quip serves as a reminder of how humor, especially at a highly visible event like the Oscars, can be a double-edged sword; capable of generating laughs, but also igniting controversy.
This episode fits within a larger conversation about freedom of speech, respect for public figures, and the boundaries of comedy. It highlights how even a seemingly harmless joke can spark deeper discussions about culture and responsibility.