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Sophie Hessekiel is a Newsweek writer based in Los Angeles. Her focus is on celebrity news and entertainment. She has also written extensively about culture and relationships for a variety of publications, including Mashable and the Los Angeles Times. Her writing can also be seen in the book Squishmallows: Radiate Positivity and on the Fox drama series The Cleaning Lady. Sophie began contributing to Newsweek in 2024 and is a graduate of Vassar College. You can see more examples of her work and contact her at sophiehessekiel.com.
Sophie Hessekiel
Contributing Entertainment Writer
news article Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
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Entertainment gossip and news from Newsweek’s network of contributorsConan O’Brien did more than make people laugh during the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, March 2. He also gave every audience member a note and a snack box.Entertainment journalist Matt Belloni took to Threads to share a photo of a note from the 61-year-old comedian. “Hello from the Oscars where the host Conan O’Brien has sent us all a heart-warming welcome note…” wrote the journalist.
Host Conan O’Brien speaks onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre on March 02, 2025 in Hollywood, California.
Host Conan O’Brien speaks onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre on March 02, 2025 in Hollywood, California.
Kevin Winter/Getty Images
“Dear Star/Seat Filler,” the former Tonight Show host wrote. “I hope you enjoy these complimentary snacks. I tried my best to include a gummy,” the note read, “but Disney said that was a ‘hard pass.’ Have a great night, Conan.” The note also included a small cartoon of the comedian wearing a tuxedo and making a peace sign.According to Refinery29, the Oscars organizers usually bring in about 300 “seat fillers,” whose job it is to move into a seat when an audience member has to get up from their chair so there are no empty seats on camera.
Fans on Threads shared their delight at the personal touch from O’Brien. “He really is the best,” wrote one user. “How fun and original,” added another.Some users were eager to learn more about the snack boxes. “Commenting so I can come back when they reveal what the snacks were :),” wrote a fan. “What are the snacks?” asked another.Another entertainment journalist, Ramin Setoodeh of Variety, revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that the snack boxes contained a water bottle and some pretzels.
Other social media users wanted to know how one could obtain such a coveted position and get into the Oscars. “Wait, how can i be a seat filler?” asked one user. “how do u get to be a seat filler?” asked another.
