Conan O’Brien’s Heartwarming Gesture at the 97th Academy Awards
Conan O’Brien, the beloved comedian and host of the 97th Academy Awards, surprised the audience with a thoughtful gesture that left everyone smiling. During the event held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California, O’Brien distributed a personalized note and a snack box to every attendee. This kind act not only showcased his humor but also added a unique touch to the prestigious ceremony.
A Personalized Note and a Glimpse of Conan’s Humor
The note, addressed to "Star/Seat Filler," was both heartfelt and lighthearted. O’Brien wrote, "Dear Star/Seat Filler, I hope you enjoy these complimentary snacks. I tried my best to include a gummy, but Disney said that was a ‘hard pass.’" The note also featured a small cartoon of the comedian wearing a tuxedo and making a peace sign. This personal touch tasked the audience and reminded everyone of O’Brien’s ability to blend humor with kindness.
The Oscars’ Secret Seat Fillers
Behind the scenes of the Oscars, a little-known tradition involves "seat fillers," individuals whose role is to occupy empty seats when nominees or attendees step away. According to Refinery29, there are typically around 300 seat fillers at the event. These individuals ensure that the audience appears full on camera. While their job may seem minor, O’Brien’s gesture brought attention to their important role and made them feel valued.
Fans React to Conan’s Thoughtful Surprise
The news of O’Brien’s personalized notes and snack boxes quickly gained traction on social media. Fans and attendees alike took to platforms like Threads and X (formerly Twitter) to express their delight. One user commented, "He really is the best," while another praised the gesture as "fun and original." The heartfelt response highlighted how O’Brien’s act resonated with the audience and added to the memorable experience of the ceremony.
The Curiosity Surrounding the Snack Boxes
While the note provided a personal touch, the snack boxes sparked curiosity among fans. Entertainment journalist Matt Belloni shared a photo of the note on Threads, prompting users to speculate about the contents of the boxes. One fan commented, "Commenting so I can come back when they reveal what the snacks were :)." Another simply asked, "What are the snacks?" Variety’s Ramin Setoodeh later revealed that the boxes included a water bottle and some pretzels, satisfying the curiosity of many.
Aspirations to Become a Seat Filler
O’Brien’s gesture also sparked interest in the role of seat fillers. Several users took to social media to inquire about how one could land such a position. Questions like "Wait, how can I be a seat filler?" and "how do u get to be a seat filler?" flooded the platforms. While the process of becoming a seat filler is not widely publicized, the interest it generated showed how O’Brien’s kind act brought attention to the often-overlooked individuals who help make the Oscars run smoothly.
Conclusion: Conan O’Brien’s Legacy of Thoughtfulness
Conan O’Brien’s decision to distribute personalized notes and snack boxes at the 97th Academy Awards was more than just a gesture of hospitality—it was a reflection of his kindness and ability to connect with people. By acknowledging the seat fillers and adding a personal touch, he reminded everyone that even in the glitz and glamour of the Oscars, small acts of thoughtfulness can make a big difference. This moment, like many others in his career, solidified O’Brien’s legacy as not just a comedian but also a man with a heart of gold.
