The Oscars 2025 delivered glamour, history, and a surprising lack of politics. Unlike previous award shows, few references were made to global conflicts or political tensions.
Adam Sandler’s Unexpected Moment
Adam Sandler, known for his humor, surprised audiences with his casual outfit. He arrived at the Oscars in a bright blue hoodie and basketball shorts. Host Conan O’Brien joked about his attire, sparking a witty exchange. Sandler responded, “Nobody even thought about what I was wearing until you brought it up.”
As a result, many viewers linked this moment to the recent White House meeting between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Social media users pointed out similarities, with one saying, “Adam Sandler did a spoof of the Trump-Zelenskyy Oval Office showdown.”
Daryl Hannah’s Support for Ukraine
Meanwhile, Daryl Hannah made a political statement on stage. Before presenting the award for Best Film Editing, she raised her hand in a peace sign and said, “Slava Ukraini.” The phrase means “Glory to Ukraine.” Her gesture received applause and came just days after Trump’s heated exchange with Zelenskyy.
Similarly, screenwriter Peter Straughan also showed his support. He wore a Ukrainian flag pin and told Variety, “Let’s not turn our backs on Ukraine.” In addition, the team behind the documentary Porcelain War, which highlights Ukrainian artists fighting in the war, displayed flag pins.
Conan O’Brien Takes a Jab at Trump
Oscars host Conan O’Brien mostly avoided politics in his monologue. However, three hours into the event, he took a jab at Trump while discussing Anora, a film about a sex worker marrying a Russian oligarch’s son. O’Brien quipped, “I guess Americans are excited to see somebody finally stand up to a powerful Russian.” The crowd initially reacted with shock, then erupted in applause.
Zoe Saldana Highlights Immigration
Later, Zoe Saldana made a powerful statement while accepting her award for Best Supporting Actress in Emilia Pérez. She honored her family’s immigrant roots. “My grandmother came to this country in 1961. I am a proud child of immigrant parents,” she said. Many interpreted her remarks as a response to Trump’s immigration policies.
Palestine and Gaza Take Center Stage
Furthermore, the night’s most political moment came when No Other Land won Best Documentary. The film highlights Israel’s demolition of Palestinian homes. Palestinian activist Basel Adra called on the world to “stop the injustice and ethnic cleansing of Palestinian people.” Co-director Yuval Abraham, an Israeli journalist, pushed for a political solution, adding, “Foreign policy in this country is helping to block this path.”
Additionally, actor Guy Pearce also showed solidarity. He wore a “Free Palestine” pin and said, “Palestine needs as much support as possible.”
The Oscars’ Shift from Politics
Overall, this year’s Oscars differed from past ceremonies. While political statements were made, the show largely avoided direct mentions of Trump. Despite its long runtime, the former president remained the unspoken topic of the night.