If there’s one person who has made late-night TV truly unforgettable, it’s Conan O’Brien. Known for his sharp wit, self-deprecating humor, and signature red hair, Conan has been a staple in American entertainment for over three decades. From his days as a writer for Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons to his long-running late-night hosting career, O’Brien has built an impressive legacy. But he didn’t stop there—he transitioned into the podcasting world, amassing a fortune along the way. In 2025, Conan O’Brien’s net worth is estimated at $200 million, and his influence continues to grow. Let’s dive into his incredible journey.
Early Life and Education
Conan Christopher O’Brien was born on April 18, 1963, in Brookline, Massachusetts. His upbringing was impressive—his father was a physician and professor at Harvard Medical School, while his mother was a successful attorney. Conan grew up in a household that valued intelligence, and it’s no surprise that he excelled academically.
He attended Brookline High School, where he graduated as valedictorian in 1981. He then went on to study History and Literature at Harvard University, where he also wrote for the prestigious humor magazine The Harvard Lampoon. His knack for comedy was evident early on, and by the time he graduated in 1985, he was already making waves in the entertainment industry.
Breaking into Television: Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons
After graduating, Conan moved to Los Angeles, where he began writing for HBO’s Not Necessarily the News. But his big break came in 1988 when he joined the writing staff for Saturday Night Live (SNL). His work at SNL was stellar, earning him an Emmy Award for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy or Variety Series in 1989. During his time there, he even made occasional on-screen appearances, though his true passion lay behind the scenes.
Following his departure from SNL in 1991, Conan landed one of the most coveted gigs in television—writing for The Simpsons. His episodes, including Marge vs. the Monorail and Homer Goes to College, are regarded as some of the best in the show’s history. However, Conan had bigger dreams—he wanted to be in front of the camera.
The Late Night Era: Conan Becomes a Household Name
In 1993, David Letterman’s departure from Late Night left a vacancy, and NBC turned to Conan O’Brien as the new host of Late Night with Conan O’Brien. Initially, the transition was rough—critics panned the show, and NBC even considered canceling it. But Conan, with his relentless work ethic and quirky humor, eventually won over audiences.
By the late ’90s, Late Night with Conan O’Brien had become a cult favorite, known for its absurd comedy, celebrity interviews, and hilarious sketches. The show ran until 2009, cementing Conan as a late-night legend.
The Tonight Show Debacle and NBC Settlement
In 2009, Conan finally achieved his dream of hosting The Tonight Show, taking over from Jay Leno. Unfortunately, the move was short-lived. Due to network politics and shifting ratings, NBC made the controversial decision to reinstate Jay Leno, forcing Conan out after just seven months.
The fallout was messy, but Conan walked away with a $32.5 million settlement, ensuring that he and his team could move on to bigger and better things. The debacle, known as the Tonight Show Conflict, only solidified Conan’s status as a beloved underdog.
Conan on TBS: A New Chapter
In 2010, Conan launched Conan on TBS, bringing his signature humor and style to cable television. Over the next decade, he reinvented his show, taking it on the road and incorporating more international content. He famously traveled to Cuba, South Korea, and even stepped foot in North Korea, making him the first American television host to do so.
During his time at TBS, Conan earned a hefty $12 million per year, further boosting his already impressive net worth. The show officially ended in 2021, but Conan had already set his sights on a new medium—podcasting.
Podcasting Goldmine: Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend
In 2018, Conan launched Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend, a podcast that quickly became one of the most successful in the industry. The show, featuring candid and comedic conversations with celebrities, resonated with fans and introduced Conan to a whole new audience.
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 move, selling Team Coco to SiriusXM for $150 million. As part of the deal, he signed a five-year talent contract, ensuring that his creative influence would remain intact.
Real Estate and Investments
Conan has made some smart real estate investments over the years. While living in New York City, he and his family owned a luxurious 7-bedroom duplex overlooking Central Park, which they later sold for $25 million.
In Los Angeles, Conan bought a Brentwood home for $10.75 million in 2008, later selling it for $9.25 million. In 2011, he purchased a Pacific Palisades mansion for $19.4 million, further solidifying his place among Hollywood’s elite.
One of his most notable real estate moves was in Carpinteria, California, where he purchased a beachfront property for $7.9 million in 2015. In 2022, he sold it for $16.5 million, doubling his investment.
Personal Life: Family and Relationships
Despite his busy career, Conan O’Brien has always prioritized his family. He met Elizabeth Ann “Liza” Powel in 2000 while she was working as a copywriter. The couple dated for 18 months before tying the knot in 2002. Together, they have two children—Neve (born 2003) and Beckett (born 2005).
Their relationship has been one of the most stable in Hollywood, and Conan often jokes about married life in his comedy routines. He remains a devoted husband and father, balancing his professional success with his personal life.
What’s your favorite Conan moment? Let’s discuss in the comments!
