Conan O’Brien’s parents died within days of each other, pays tribute

Conan O’Brien Pays Tribute to His Late Parents

Conan O’Brien is reflecting on the lives of his recently departed parents in a heartfelt interview with the Boston Globe. His mother, Ruth Reardon O’Brien, passed away last Thursday, followed by the death of his father, Dr. Thomas F. O’Brien, just three days earlier.

Describing his parents as complementary figures, O’Brien fondly recalled his mother’s dedication to her legal career while raising him and his five siblings, and his father’s work as a doctor at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, where he educated physicians in developing countries about antibiotic resistance.

O’Brien shared a cherished memory of his father taking him on a transformative trip to South America during his seventh grade, instilling in him a love for travel and adventure. He described his father as a visionary who embarked on ambitious projects, like launching a hospital website in Peru with just a change of clothes in his briefcase.

In contrast, O’Brien portrayed his mother as the pragmatic force in their family dynamic, ensuring that daily needs were met and appointments were kept while his father pursued his dreams. Despite their differences, O’Brien emphasized that his parents were united by their Irish Catholic heritage and a shared commitment to excellence.

Reflecting on their work ethic and discipline, O’Brien noted how he inherited these qualities from his parents. As he prepares to host the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025, he carries on their legacy of hard work and dedication.