Comedian Conan O’Brien criticized a growing trend among late-night comics who prioritize political anger over humor during an interview with the Oxford Union on Tuesday.
O’Brien addressed the influence of former President Donald Trump on comedic content, noting that Trump’s communication style has made it challenging for comedians to engage in satire or parody effectively. In his remarks, O’Brien highlighted how some comics have adopted a pattern of repeatedly referencing Trump in their material, arguing this approach shifts focus away from humor toward anger.
“The problem is, you’ve put down your best weapon—being funny—and you’ve exchanged it for anger,” O’Brien stated. “You’re being co-opted because you’re so angry.”
O’Brien emphasized his commitment to artistic integrity over political alignment, contrasting his decades-long career in comedy with the current trend of late-night platforms becoming venues for partisan messaging. He described a shift from shared cultural experiences through humor to an environment where political divisions dominate entertainment, resulting in a disconnect between comedic content and broader audiences.
