At the 2025 Oscars, host Conan O’Brien added a provocative twist to the evening by referencing the ongoing feud between rappers Drake and Kendrick Lamar. During his monologue, O’Brien made a pointed joke about Lamar’s 2024 diss track “Not Like Us,” which had previously sparked legal disputes involving Drake.

The controversy surrounding “Not Like Us” intensified when Drake filed lawsuits against iHeartMedia and Universal Music Group (UMG), alleging defamation and manipulation of streaming services to promote the track. Despite these legal challenges, UMG denied any efforts to harm Drake’s reputation, emphasizing their longstanding support for the artist.

Conan O’Brien’s jest at the Oscars not only reignited discussions about the feud but also highlighted the intersection of celebrity culture and award show humor. The joke elicited a range of reactions, underscoring the complex dynamics between public figures and the media.

In the broader context of the 2025 Oscars, the night was marked by “Anora” sweeping major awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Mikey Madison. Adrien Brody secured Best Actor for his role in “The Brutalist,” and Sean Baker made history with multiple awards for direction and screenplay.

Conan O’Brien’s handling of the Oscars, especially with moments like the Drake-Lamar joke, demonstrated his keen awareness of current cultural narratives, blending humor with the evening’s festivities.