Home / Arts and Entertainment / Conan O'Brien Surprises with Dramatic Turn in A24's "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You"
Conan O'Brien Surprises with Dramatic Turn in A24's "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You"
24 Oct
Summary
- Conan O'Brien plays a serious, pragmatic therapist role in new A24 film
- His understated performance contrasts with the lead character's emotional reactions
- Writer-director praised O'Brien's ability to deliver a "unperformable" monologue
In a surprising turn, comedian Conan O'Brien has delivered a standout dramatic performance in the new A24 film "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You," which premiered in select theaters on October 24, 2025. Directed by Mary Bronstein, the film centers on Linda (played by Rose Byrne), a therapist caring for her ill daughter while dealing with her absent husband.
O'Brien plays Linda's colleague and therapist, a dry and pragmatic character who provides a grounding presence to Byrne's emotional performance. Despite his comedic background, O'Brien keeps his performance understated, generating moments of unintentional humor that contrast with Linda's justified reactions to the challenges she faces.
What's particularly impressive about O'Brien's work is his ability to deliver a complex monologue that the director initially thought would be "unperformable." Bronstein was pleasantly surprised when O'Brien nailed the delivery, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
This dramatic turn from the former Conan host has critics and fans alike hoping to see him take on more indie film roles in the future. With a sweet part in the upcoming "Toy Story 5" and this compelling performance in "If I Had Legs," O'Brien is proving he can successfully transition from his iconic comedic persona to more serious dramatic work.
