Conan O'Brien: 'Hacks' Triggered My PTSD

Conan O'Brien's PTSD Triggered by 'Hacks' Season 4's Accurate Depiction of Late-Night TV Los Angeles, CA – May 28, 2025 – Conan O’Brien, a veteran of late-night television, recently shared his surprising reaction to the new season of HBO Max’s "Hacks." During an interview on Team Coco’s YouTube channel, O’Brien revealed that the show’s accurate portrayal of the late-night world triggered post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. He stated, "The show delves into late night this year, which was fascinating for me because there are things that you cite in the show that I’ve lived through. And so, I’ll get a little bit of PTSD from watching it." Despite this, O’Brien praised the show for its humor and its remarkably accurate depiction of the industry’s inner workings. The interview offers a unique perspective on the demanding nature of late-night television and the emotional toll it can take on its hosts. O’Brien’s candid remarks underscore the intense pressures and scrutiny faced by those in the industry, offering a glimpse into the realities behind the comedic performances.