Conan O’Brien’s Scrapped ‘Wicked’ Parody: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the 2025 Oscars Opening

The 2025 Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, featured a memorable opening that almost took a different turn. Originally, O’Brien planned a parody involving the musical “Wicked,” where he would appear as the green-skinned Elphaba, humorously struggling to remove the persistent dye throughout various Best Picture-

The initial idea was to showcase O’Brien, painted green as Elphaba, transitioning through scenes from nominated films like “Gladiator II,” “Conclave,” and “Dune: Part Two,” with characters reacting to his stubborn green hue. The recurring joke centered on the indelible dye, leading to comedic interactions with characters from these films. ​

Several factors led to the abandonment of this concept. Logistical challenges arose, particularly concerns about the green dye’s removal and the complexity of filming multiple parodied scenes in a limited timeframe. Additionally, the devastating Los Angeles wildfires prompted a shift in tone for the ceremony’s opening, leading to a musical tribute to the city instead. ​

In place of the ‘Wicked’ parody, O’Brien delivered a comedic sketch inspired by the film “The Substance,” where he humorously emerged from Demi Moore’s back. This unexpected and quirky opening garnered significant laughter and set a lighthearted tone for the evening. ​

The final opening received mixed reactions. While many appreciated O’Brien’s unique humor, some viewers found the skit unconventional. Despite differing opinions, the opening successfully captured attention and sparked discussions. ​

Conan O’Brien’s adaptability and willingness to experiment with unconventional ideas highlight his comedic talent. The evolution of the Oscars’ opening sketch from a ‘Wicked’ parody to “The Substance” spoof demonstrates the fluid nature of live event planning and the importance of context in creative decisions.​


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