Conan O’Brien Shares Why He’s ‘So Proud’ of ‘America’s Sweetheart’ Andy Richter

Conan O’Brien is cheering on his longtime friend and sidekick Andy Richter on this season of Dancing With The Stars.

During a recent interview with NESN, the talk show host was asked how he’s feeling as Richter takes “the world by storm” during his underdog run on the ABC reality show.

“He is a phenomenon. I am a proud dad. I’m also a proud mom — I’m both those figures to Andy. I text with him all the time,” O’Brien said. “Every time he gets by a new hurdle, I’m just delighted for him.”

“He’s America’s sweetheart! I keep texting him and telling him how happy I am,” he added.

O’Brien said that he’s been busy traveling for work recently, but if he has time, he would be “really happy” to be in the ballroom audience to watch his friend perform.

After singing Richter’s praises, the comedian was then asked if he would ever considering becoming a contestant on the show himself.

“I’d need several surgeries,” O’Brien joked. “And some of them cosmetic. Actually, all of them cosmetic. I’m an incredible athlete.”

Richter and his professional partner Emma Slater will perform a Quickstep to “Puttin’ on the Ritz” by Robbie Williams during the Tuesday, Nov. 11 episode.

The pair will also compete in a relay round alongside Season 29 Mirrorball Champion Kaitlyn Bristowe.

Tuesday’s “20th Birthday Party” episode will be a celebration of the show’s milestone anniversary and will feature guest appearances from former pros and celebrities from throughout the show’s history.

Dancing with the Stars airs LIVE on Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET/PT on ABC and Disney+ and streams next day on Hulu.

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This story was originally reported by Parade on Nov 10, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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