The entertainment world continues to buzz with activity, from award ceremonies to late-night comedy. This week, the 2025 Oscars took center stage, alongside news of a shakeup at NBC and controversial humor on Saturday Night Live.
Oscars Sidestep Politics in 2025
The 2025 Oscars ceremony, held against the backdrop of a new era, notably avoided political statements. One brief moment, however, stood out. During the presentation of the Best Original Score award, host Conan O'Brien quipped, "Anora is doing well tonight. I think Americans are excited to finally see someone challenge a powerful Russian." Unlike his usual style, O'Brien moved on quickly, and the show followed suit, maintaining a lighthearted tone.
Some observers have interpreted this approach as a deliberate effort to avoid controversy, particularly in relation to President Donald Trump's administration. The lack of political commentary was seen by some as a form of "submission," indicating Trump's influence over the event. The focus remained firmly on celebrating cinematic achievements, leaving political discourse on the sidelines.
SNL's Shane Gillis Sparks Debate
Meanwhile, Saturday Night Live (SNL) found itself in the spotlight once again, this time due to the hosting gig of Shane Gillis. Gillis, who previously faced controversy and was fired by NBC before even appearing on the show, returned to host and didn't shy away from controversial humor. He mocked President Joe Biden's "dead face," praised President Donald Trump's "Gulf of America," and joked about purchasing Greenland. "Look, I get it. You guys are pretty liberal here," Gillis told the SNL audience, acknowledging the show's generally left-leaning perspective.
Gillis's performance sparked a wide range of reactions, with some finding his humor offensive and others finding it refreshing. His willingness to tackle controversial topics and poke fun at both sides of the political spectrum made for a memorable, albeit divisive, episode of SNL.
Lester Holt Departs 'Nightly News'
In other news, Lester Holt has announced his departure from NBC's "Nightly News" after a decade as anchor. Holt's tenure has been marked by steady ratings and a reputation for journalistic integrity. NBC has already named his replacement, signaling a new chapter for the long-running news program.
Holt's departure marks the end of an era for "Nightly News," and the network is likely hoping that his replacement can maintain the show's success in a rapidly changing media landscape. The entertainment and news industries continue to evolve, and these recent events highlight the ongoing shifts and challenges facing both sectors.