Conan O’Brien: The Multifaceted Father and Entertainer
Conan O’Brien, a household name in the world of comedy and entertainment, wears many hats—comedian, actor, writer, and podcaster. But among his many roles, the one he cherishes most is being a father to his two children, Neve and Beckett, whom he shares with his wife, Liza Powel O’Brien. As he prepares to host the 2025 Oscars, Conan has often spoken about how fatherhood transformed his life in ways he never imagined. In a heartfelt episode of his podcast, Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, he shared advice with his co-host, Matt Gourley, who was expecting a child at the time. "Parenthood is such a profound change in your life," Conan said. "Everything goes from black and white to color. It’s absolutely transformative and great, and you’re going to be a great dad." For Conan, fatherhood has been a journey of growth, joy, and endless learning, shaping him into the man he is today.
The Love and Partnership of Conan and Liza
At the heart of Conan’s life is his wife, Liza Powel O’Brien, a talented playwright and podcast host in her own right. The couple tied the knot in 2002, and their relationship has been a cornerstone of support and mutual admiration. Liza is the creative force behind the podcast Significant Others, a nonfiction series that delves into the stories of people who are often overshadowed by their famous partners. Her fascination with these stories began long before her marriage to Conan, and it was he who encouraged her to pursue the idea. "Conan was one of the first people to say, ‘Absolutely, I would listen to that,’" she recalled. Together, they’ve built a life that balances their careers and family, proving that partnership can be both loving and inspiring.
Neve O’Brien: A Daughter Who Shares Her Dad’s Passion for Life
In 2003, Conan and Liza welcomed their first child, Neve, a name that reflects their Irish heritage. Neve has grown into a bright and curious young woman, and Conan often shares stories about their bond on his podcast. One of his fondest memories involves a trip to the Coachella music festival with Neve. In a March 2023 episode featuring Michelle Zauner of Japanese Breakfast, Conan recalled how Neve introduced him to new music during their drive to the festival. She played him several songs, asking him to guess which band they should see. Conan immediately gravitated toward Japanese Breakfast, and Neve revealed that was the band they were there to see. It was a moment of connection that highlighted their shared love for music and adventure. Conan has often praised Neve for her intelligence and kindness, calling her a "great person."
Beckett O’Brien: The Tech Whiz with a Sense of Humor
Three years after Neve’s arrival, the O’Briens welcomed their youngest child, Beckett, in 2005. Beckett has grown into a clever and talented individual, with a particular knack for technology and computers. Conan has often joked about his son’s tech prowess, even recalling how Beckett reprogrammed his phone when he was just three years old. "He could reach over and hit a few buttons, and suddenly, it wasn’t a phone anymore," Conan said with a laugh. "It was a blender." Beckett’s curiosity and creativity have made him a source of pride for his parents, and Conan has often described him as "incredibly talented" and "a very good person."
Conan’s Insights on Fatherhood and Family Life
Conan has never shied away from sharing his thoughts on fatherhood, often weaving stories about his children into his podcasts and stand-up routines. In a 2020 episode of Dads: The Podcast, he opened up about the unique qualities of both Neve and Beckett, praising their intelligence and individuality. For Conan, fatherhood has been a lesson in humility, patience, and unconditional love. He has often joked about the chaos of parenting but has also emphasized its rewards. "Nothing anybody says is going to mean anything to you, but it is going to be the best thing you ever do in your life," he once said. His stories about Neve, Beckett,
