Conan O’Brien: The King of Late Night and Beyond
If there’s one person who has left an indelible mark on late-night television, it’s Conan O’Brien. With his sharp wit, self-deprecating humor, and unmistakable red hair, he has been a beloved figure in American entertainment for over three decades. From writing for Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons to hosting legendary late-night shows, O’Brien has crafted an extraordinary career. But he didn’t stop there—his foray into podcasting has only expanded his influence and fortune. As of 2025, his net worth is estimated at $200 million, and his legacy continues to grow. Let’s take a closer look at his incredible journey.
Early Life and Education
Conan Christopher O’Brien was born on April 18, 1963, in Brookline, Massachusetts, into an accomplished family. His father, a physician and professor at Harvard Medical School, and his mother, a successful attorney, instilled in him a strong appreciation for intellect and hard work. Given this environment, it’s no surprise that Conan excelled academically from an early age.
A Bright Start in Comedy
O’Brien attended Brookline High School, where he graduated as valedictorian in 1981. He then pursued a degree in History and Literature at Harvard University, where his comedic talent began to shine. While at Harvard, he wrote for The Harvard Lampoon, the university’s renowned humor magazine, even serving as its president twice—an honor rarely achieved.
By the time he graduated in 1985, Conan had already established himself as a rising comedic force, setting the stage for his future in entertainment.
Breaking into Television: Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons
After graduating, Conan O’Brien moved to Los Angeles, where he began his television career writing for HBO’s Not Necessarily the News. However, his big break came in 1988 when he joined the writing staff of Saturday Night Live (SNL). His work on the show was exceptional, earning him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy or Variety Series in 1989. While he occasionally appeared on screen, his true passion remained in crafting sharp, witty sketches behind the scenes.
In 1991, Conan left SNL and secured one of the most prestigious writing jobs in television—working for The Simpsons. He quickly became known for his brilliant storytelling and sharp humor, penning classic episodes like “Marge vs. the Monorail” and “Homer Goes to College”, which remain fan favorites to this day.
Despite his success as a writer, Conan had a bigger dream—he wanted to be in front of the camera.
The Late Night Era: Conan Becomes a Household Name
In 1993, when David Letterman left Late Night, NBC faced the challenge of finding a new host. To many people’s surprise, they chose Conan O’Brien, a relatively unknown comedy writer with no hosting experience.
The transition was anything but smooth. Early reviews were brutal, and NBC even considered canceling the show due to its struggling ratings. However, Conan’s relentless work ethic, offbeat humor, and self-deprecating charm slowly won over audiences. Over time, Late Night with Conan O’Brien became a cult favorite, introducing absurd comedy bits, unforgettable characters, and a signature brand of humor that set him apart from other late-night hosts.
Late Night Success and Becoming a Comedy Icon
By the late ’90s, Late Night with Conan O’Brien had evolved into a cult favorite, celebrated for its absurd comedy, clever celebrity interviews, and unforgettable sketches. Conan’s unique brand of humor—featuring quirky characters, self-deprecating jokes, and surreal comedy bits—resonated with a loyal audience. The show ran for 16 years, from 1993 to 2009, solidifying his status as a late-night legend.
The Tonight Show Debacle and NBC Fallout
In 2009, Conan finally achieved his long-awaited dream—hosting The Tonight Show, succeeding Jay Leno. However, his tenure was shockingly brief. Due to network politics and fluctuating ratings, NBC made the highly controversial decision to reinstate Leno, effectively pushing Conan out after just seven months on the job.
The public overwhelmingly sided with Conan, sparking a media firestorm and the viral “I’m With Coco” movement. Ultimately, Conan reached a settlement with NBC, walking away with a reported $45 million payout. While the experience was a major setback, it also cemented his reputation as a beloved underdog in the entertainment industry.
The Tonight Show Fallout and Moving Forward
The Tonight Show controversy was messy, but Conan ultimately walked away with a $32.5 million settlement, ensuring that he and his team could transition to new opportunities. The entire debacle, often referred to as the Tonight Show Conflict, only strengthened Conan’s image as a beloved underdog, with fans rallying behind him in support.
A New Chapter: Conan on TBS
In 2010, Conan launched Conan on TBS, bringing his signature wit and absurd humor to cable television. Over the next decade, he redefined late-night comedy, taking the show on the road and incorporating more international content. His travel specials became legendary, with visits to Cuba, South Korea, Armenia, and even North Korea, making him the first American TV host to step foot in the country.
During his tenure at TBS, Conan earned $12 million per year, further boosting his already impressive net worth. While Conan ended in 2021, he had already set his sights on a new frontier—podcasting.
Podcasting Goldmine: Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend
In 2018, Conan launched Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, a hugely successful podcast featuring candid, comedic conversations with celebrities. The show quickly gained a massive following, introducing Conan to a new generation of fans.
By 2022, Team Coco, the production company behind the podcast, was generating 16 million downloads per month. That same year, Conan made a game-changing business move, selling Team Coco to SiriusXM for $150 million. As part of the deal, he signed a five-year talent contract, ensuring his continued creative influence in the podcasting world.
Smart Investments: Real Estate and Wealth Management
Conan has also made shrewd real estate investments, further expanding his wealth.
- New York City: Owned a 7-bedroom duplex overlooking Central Park, later selling it for $25 million.
- Los Angeles: Purchased a Brentwood home for $10.75 million in 2008, later selling it for $9.25 million.
- Pacific Palisades: In 2011, he bought a mansion for $19.4 million, cementing his place among Hollywood’s elite.
- Carpinteria, California: Purchased a beachfront property for $7.9 million in 2015 and sold it for $16.5 million in 2022, doubling his investment.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Despite his demanding career, Conan has always prioritized his family. He met Elizabeth Ann “Liza” Powel in 2000 while she was working as a copywriter. After dating for 18 months, they married in 2002. The couple shares two children—Neve (born 2003) and Beckett (born 2005).
Their marriage is one of the most stable in Hollywood, and Conan frequently incorporates hilarious stories about married life into his comedy. He remains a devoted husband and father, balancing his legendary career with family life.
