Conan O’Brien is one of the most recognizable faces in comedy. With his towering height, signature red hair, and razor-sharp wit, he’s entertained audiences for decades.
But behind the scenes, there’s one person who has stood by him through it all – his wife, Liza Powel O’Brien. While Conan is the public figure, Liza has played a crucial role in his life, both as a partner and as an accomplished individual in her own right. Let’s take a closer look at who she is, how they met, and their life together.
How Did Conan and Liza Meet?
Conan O’Brien and Liza Powel O’Brien’s love story started in a way that sounds straight out of a romantic comedy. In 2000, Liza was working as a copywriter at the advertising agency Foote, Cone & Belding. As fate would have it, her agency was hired to work on a campaign for Late Night with Conan O’Brien, Conan’s long-running NBC talk show.
During one of the show’s tapings, Liza and a team from her agency were invited to appear in a sketch. The moment Conan laid eyes on her, something clicked. He later admitted in interviews that it was love at first sight. In an interview with Piers Morgan Tonight, he jokingly recalled how he “instantly” fell for her, saying, “Somewhere, in the vault at NBC, there’s footage of me literally falling for my wife on camera.”
Unlike many Hollywood love stories, their romance didn’t involve a whirlwind of extravagant gestures or media buzz. Instead, it was built on genuine connection. After the initial meeting, Conan pursued Liza, and they dated for nearly two years before tying the knot in 2002.
The Wedding of Conan and Liza
On January 12, 2002, Conan and Liza got married in a beautiful, intimate ceremony in Seattle, Washington, Liza’s hometown. Unlike the flashy celebrity weddings that often make headlines, theirs was a heartfelt event attended by close family and friends. The couple has since remained refreshingly low-key about their relationship, preferring to keep their personal lives out of the public eye as much as possible.
Who Is Liza Powel O’Brien?
Liza Powel O’Brien isn’t just “Conan O’Brien’s wife.” She’s a talented, independent woman with an impressive career of her own. Born Elizabeth Ann Powel, Liza grew up in Seattle and attended Vassar College, one of the top liberal arts schools in the country. She later pursued her passion for writing and storytelling, earning a Master of Fine Arts in Fiction Writing from Columbia University.
Before stepping into the literary world, Liza worked in advertising as a copywriter. This career not only showcased her creative abilities but also led her to the very moment when she met Conan.
In recent years, Liza has focused on playwriting and screenwriting. Her works have been performed in theater festivals and workshops across the country, earning her recognition in literary and performance circles. She is deeply involved in the arts, particularly in supporting playwrights and advocating for quality storytelling in theater and television.
Life as Conan O’Brien’s Wife
Being married to one of the funniest men in entertainment might seem like a rollercoaster ride, but Liza and Conan have built a life based on mutual respect, humor, and shared values. Unlike many celebrity couples, they’ve maintained a relatively private and stable marriage despite Conan’s demanding career in television.
Their relationship is often punctuated by Conan’s signature humor. He frequently references Liza in interviews and on his shows, always with deep affection. He once joked on The Late Show with David Letterman that he “married up” and that Liza is the one who keeps everything running smoothly at home.
Their Family Life
Conan and Liza have two children: Neve O’Brien, born in 2003, and Beckett O’Brien, born in 2005. Despite Conan’s hectic work schedule, he has spoken about the importance of family, often crediting Liza for being the grounding force in their household. The couple has made a conscious effort to shield their children from the public eye, ensuring they have a normal upbringing away from Hollywood’s spotlight.
The Secret to Their Long-Lasting Marriage
In a world where Hollywood marriages often don’t last, Conan and Liza’s relationship is a breath of fresh air. When asked about the secret to their successful marriage, Conan has often emphasized communication, humor, and mutual respect.
Their ability to laugh together has been a cornerstone of their relationship. Given Conan’s comedic background, it’s no surprise that humor plays a massive role in their dynamic. However, beyond the jokes, there’s an undeniable bond built on understanding and shared experiences.
Another key aspect of their success is their commitment to keeping their personal life separate from the public eye. While Conan has been in the limelight for decades, Liza has largely stayed away from the media, focusing instead on her creative work and family.
Liza’s Role in Conan’s Career
Although Liza prefers to remain behind the scenes, her influence on Conan’s career is undeniable. She’s been his biggest supporter through the highs and lows of his time in late-night television, including his dramatic departure from The Tonight Show in 2010.
Conan has often mentioned how Liza was his rock during that tumultuous period, encouraging him to stay true to himself despite the industry politics. Shortly after leaving NBC, he embarked on a successful tour (The Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television Tour) and eventually found a new home on TBS with Conan. Throughout it all, Liza remained his unwavering source of strength and support.
What’s Next for Liza Powel O’Brien?
While she’s best known publicly as Conan O’Brien’s wife, Liza continues to carve her own path in the world of writing and storytelling. She has been involved in theater projects, literary panels, and advocacy for writers. Her work reflects her passion for narrative and her belief in the power of authentic storytelling.
Though she remains largely out of the spotlight, her impact on Conan’s life and career and her own creative contributions speak volumes. Whether supporting her husband’s career, raising their family, or working on her literary projects, Liza Powel O’Brien is a remarkable woman in her own right.
Conan O’Brien and Liza Powel O’Brien’s relationship is proof that true love can exist in the world of entertainment. Their story rooted in a chance meeting, mutual respect, and a shared sense of humor has stood the test of time. While Conan continues to entertain millions, Liza remains a steady and influential force in his life, proving that behind every great comedian, there’s often a great partner.
In a world where celebrity relationships can be fleeting, theirs is an inspiring example of a strong, lasting marriage built on love, laughter, and unwavering support.
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