Oscars joke writer Skyler Higley defended the Kendrick Lamar and Drake joke he wrote for the 97th Academy Awards monologue. He explained the joke was in reference to the cultural moment and that O'Brien was not taking sides in the rappers' feud.

The host then turned to Timothée Chalamet, who he noted is “nominated for his portrayal of Bob Dylan” in “A Complete Unknown.” “Bob Dylan wanted to be here tonight, but not that badly,” O’Brien joked.