Conan O’Brien Needs A Friend David Oyelowo Returns
53 snips
Apr 13, 2026 David Oyelowo, acclaimed actor from Selma and Lincoln, returns to discuss his new film Newborn and personal turns in life. He tells wild on-set stories, recalls an accidental start in acting, and describes portraying a man emerging from solitary confinement. Conversations weave family lore, childhood across continents, and the emotional costs of intense roles.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Emotional Reaction To His Son's Proposal
- David Oyelowo watched his eldest son's proposal video mid-flight and instantly reposted it, even monetizing the clip.
- He proposed to his wife at 21, and that memory made him emotional watching his 24-year-old son propose while on a plane with limited Wi-Fi.
Tube Strike Launched His Acting Career
- A subway (tube) strike pushed David into reading for a lead at youth theatre and he unexpectedly got cast.
- The three slated leads were stuck on trains, he read the part, the room went silent, and three days later he led a National Theatre production.
British Stage Training Creates Storytellers
- David credits British theatre tradition for producing actors who are also masterful storytellers and raconteurs.
- Studying with and observing greats like Judi Dench and Kenneth Branagh instilled discipline: learn lines, then forget them to stay fresh on stage.
