The Evolution of Conan O’Brien’s Late-Night Career in Photos

Conan O’Brien Bids Farewell to Late-Night Television

Conan O’Brien is saying goodbye to late-night television.

His last “Conan” show airs Thursday on TBS, ending a nearly 30-year run in late night. He’ll be moving to HBO Max, WarnerMedia’s streaming service, to host a new weekly variety series.

O’Brien’s hosting career began in 1993 when he replaced David Letterman on NBC’s “Late Night” show. Prior to this, he had been a writer for “The Simpsons” and “Saturday Night Live.”

O’Brien spent 16 years hosting “Late Night” before he replaced Jay Leno as host of “The Tonight Show” in 2009. O’Brien left the show less than a year later after NBC moved to put Leno back in his old time slot.

Since 2010, O’Brien has been on TBS.

Career Highlights

Conan O'Brien is seen backstage on the set of his show 'Conan' in 2019. He's been a late-night host for nearly 30 years.
Conan O’Brien is seen backstage on the set of his show ‘Conan’ in 2019. He’s been a late-night host for nearly 30 years.

Over the years, O’Brien’s unconventional style and unique approach to comedy have made him a favorite among fans. His humorous interactions with celebrity guests and quirky sketches have garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following.

Memorable Moments

O'Brien does a skit with his longtime show sidekick, comedian Andy Richter, in 1996.
O’Brien does a skit with his longtime show sidekick, comedian Andy Richter, in 1996. Richter has been a part of O’Brien’s show for much of his late-night run.
O'Brien delivers a monologue as he hosts an episode of 'Saturday Night Live' in 2001.
O’Brien delivers a monologue as he hosts an episode of ‘Saturday Night Live’ in 2001. Before he became famous, O’Brien was a writer for the show.

Transition to HBO Max

As O’Brien transitions to HBO Max, he continues to innovate in the realm of late-night entertainment. His new variety series promises to highlight his comedic talents while providing a platform for emerging voices in comedy.

O'Brien hosts the MTV Movie Awards in 2014.
O’Brien hosts the MTV Movie Awards in 2014.
O'Brien wears a bomb disposal suit as he taped episodes of his 'Conan' show in Qatar in 2015.
O’Brien wears a bomb disposal suit as he taped episodes of his ‘Conan’ show in Qatar in 2015.

Legacy and Impact

Conan O’Brien’s impact on late-night television is significant, with a career characterized by creativity and humor. He has inspired many comedians and continues to be a beloved figure in entertainment.

As he embarks on this new chapter with HBO Max, fans eagerly await to see how O’Brien will shape the future of late-night comedy.


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