Jimmy Kimmel kicked off the 2024 Oscars with a scathing opening monologue, where he didn’t shy away from teasing Robert Downey Jr. about his past struggles with substance abuse and making Emma Stone uncomfortable with a joke about her film.

Addressing Downey Jr.’s history, Kimmel quipped, “And Robert Downey Jr., one of the highest points of his career. But Robert has been” – gesturing toward RDJ’s face, prompting laughter from the audience. He continued, “Was that too on the nose or a drug motion you made?” Then, directing a joke at Downey Jr.’s masculinity, Kimmel added, “But look at him, he’s so handsome, so talented, he’s won every award there is to win. Is that an acceptance speech in your pocket or do you just have a very rectangular p*nis?”

The joke received a tepid response from Downey Jr., who maintained a somber expression, while viewers criticised Kimmel for making light of substance abuse issues.

Later in the evening, Kimmel appeared to ruffle Emma Stone’s feathers with a quip about her role in “Poor Things,” alluding to explicit scenes in the film. Stone’s reaction was caught on camera, with some speculating she muttered an insult directed at Kimmel.

Kimmel also didn’t miss the opportunity to poke fun at Cena in a skit commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Oscars streaker incident. Cena, initially supposed to streak across the stage, expressed discomfort with the idea, citing the elegance of the event. Kimmel retorted, “You wrestle naked, why not?” Cena replied, “I don’t wrestle naked, I wrestle in jorts.”

The awkwardness continued as Cena struggled to open an envelope, humorously highlighting the importance of costumes in film.

The Oscars ceremony featured these moments of jest alongside its celebration of cinematic achievement, with notable wins for Downey Jr. and other accomplished actors and filmmakers.