Oscars Guests Receive Surprise 'Secret Note' and Snack Package from Host Conan O'Brien

The 2026 Academy Awards featured a personal touch from the host, with a handwritten message and free treats for all attendees.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:09am

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At the 2026 Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O'Brien, each guest in attendance found a handwritten note from the host under their seat, along with a special 'Moderately Happy Meal' snack package. The note featured a message of support and a request for 'loud, enthusiastic laughter' from the audience. This behind-the-scenes detail provided a unique glimpse into the Oscars experience for the nominees and their guests.

Why it matters

The Oscars are one of the most prestigious and glamorous events in the entertainment industry, but this personal touch from the host helped to humanize the experience for the attendees. By providing a handwritten note and free snacks, Conan O'Brien created a more intimate and enjoyable atmosphere for the guests, which could help foster a stronger connection between the celebrities and the audience watching at home.

The details

According to reports, the note left by Conan O'Brien for each Oscars guest read: 'Good luck tonight, have fun, and remember that loud, enthusiastic laughter is good for your health and my ego.' The 'Moderately Happy Meal' snack package included treats that Conan claimed would cost $85 at a movie theater, providing the guests with a complimentary and unexpected perk.

  • The 98th Academy Awards ceremony took place on March 16, 2026.

The players

Conan O'Brien

The host of the 98th Academy Awards ceremony in 2026.

Jessie Buckley

The Irish actress who won the Oscar for Best Actress for her role in the film 'Hamnet'.

Micheal B. Jordan

The actor who won the Oscar for Best Actor for his roles in the film 'Sinners'.

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What they’re saying

“Good luck tonight, have fun, and remember that loud, enthusiastic laughter is good for your health and my ego.”

— Conan O'Brien, Oscars Host

“these snacks may not look like much but in any movie theater they would run you $85.”

— Conan O'Brien, Oscars Host

“It's been a special honor to receive this award on Mother's Day in the UK, given I'm a new mom and my role in 'Hamnet' centered around motherhood.”

— Jessie Buckley, Best Actress Winner

What’s next

The Academy has confirmed that the 'secret note' and 'Moderately Happy Meal' snack package left by Conan O'Brien for Oscars guests was a genuine surprise, and it's expected that future Oscars hosts may incorporate similar personal touches to enhance the experience for attendees.

The takeaway

Conan O'Brien's unexpected gesture of providing a handwritten note and complimentary snacks for Oscars guests helped to create a more intimate and enjoyable atmosphere at the prestigious awards ceremony. This personal touch from the host humanized the experience for the nominees and their guests, potentially fostering a stronger connection between the celebrities and the audience watching at home.