Conan O’Brien Stokes Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s Feud at 2025 Oscars

The 2025 Academy Awards took an unexpected turn when host Conan O’Brien made a lighthearted yet pointed joke about the ongoing feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake. His remarks reignited discussions about the long-standing rivalry between the two rap superstars, sparking reactions from both fans and industry insiders.

A Feud That Has Shaped Modern Hip-Hop

The feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake has been one of the most significant rivalries in modern hip-hop. Over the years, the two have exchanged subliminal and direct diss tracks, fueling speculation and debate among rap fans worldwide.

O’Brien’s Joke at the Oscars

During his opening monologue, O’Brien referenced Kendrick Lamar’s Grammy-winning diss track “Not Like Us,” which had dominated headlines earlier in the year. The comedian quipped, “In honor of Not Like Us, I just want to assure the Academy that this year’s Best Actor winner won’t be lip-syncing their speech… unless Drake is presenting.”

Audience Reaction to the Jab

The audience at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles reacted with a mix of laughter, shock, and awkward glances, as the joke landed at a high-profile event that typically focuses on Hollywood rather than music industry rivalries. The moment quickly went viral on social media, with fans dissecting the implications of O’Brien’s remark.

Drake and Kendrick Lamar’s Tension at the Grammys

The reference to the feud followed a tense moment at the 2025 Grammy Awards, where Lamar’s track Not Like Us won both Record of the Year and Song of the Year. Drake was notably absent from the ceremony, further fueling speculation about the status of their rivalry.

Drake’s Lawsuits Against Media Outlets

Adding another layer to the conflict, Drake had previously filed lawsuits against iHeartMedia and Universal Music Group, alleging defamation and manipulation of streaming services. These lawsuits stemmed from claims that Lamar’s diss track had been given unfair promotional advantages, intensifying the tension between the two artists.

The Internet Reacts to O’Brien’s Joke

Following the Oscars, social media exploded with reactions to O’Brien’s joke. Fans of both rappers debated whether the jab was harmless fun or an unnecessary provocation, with hashtags like #DrakeVsKendrick and #ConanOscarsJoke trending worldwide.

Kendrick Lamar’s Response

Though Lamar did not immediately respond to the joke, his fans celebrated the moment, viewing it as another symbolic win in his ongoing battle with Drake. Some speculated that the rapper might address the Oscars moment in an upcoming song.

Drake’s Silence Sparks Speculation

Drake remained silent on social media, avoiding direct commentary on the Oscars incident. However, insiders close to the rapper suggested that he was not amused by the continued public attention on his feud with Lamar.

Hip-Hop’s Presence at the Oscars

The moment also highlighted hip-hop’s growing presence at major Hollywood events, reinforcing the genre’s cultural dominance and mainstream influence. While rap feuds have traditionally stayed within the music industry, they are now becoming fodder for global entertainment discussions.

Conan O’Brien’s History with Controversial Jokes

As a seasoned comedian and talk show host, Conan O’Brien is no stranger to pushing boundaries. Throughout his career, he has used satire and humor to comment on pop culture, making the Oscars joke consistent with his comedic style.

Did the Joke Cross the Line?

While some found the joke entertaining, others questioned whether it was appropriate for the Oscars stage. Critics argued that bringing up personal rivalries in a formal awards setting might have been unnecessary, especially given the legal disputes surrounding the feud.

The Impact on Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s Rivalry

If anything, the Oscars moment has further cemented the feud’s place in pop culture history. While neither artist has responded publicly, the reference has kept the conversation alive, ensuring that their rivalry remains a defining moment in hip-hop.

What’s Next for Kendrick and Drake?

With both artists expected to release new music later in the year, fans are anticipating possible lyrical responses to the ongoing drama. Whether Drake and Lamar will continue their feud or eventually bury the hatchet remains to be seen.

Conclusion: The Oscars and Hip-Hop’s Cultural Influence

Conan O’Brien’s joke at the 2025 Oscars served as a reminder of hip-hop’s power and influence across all entertainment industries. While the remark may have been made in jest, it has reignited discussions about one of the biggest rap feuds in modern history, proving that music’s impact extends far beyond the charts.