Liza Powel O'Brien: 7 Fascinating Facts About Conan O'Brien's Wife And Her New Career Path

As of December 13, 2025, Conan O'Brien remains one of the most beloved figures in late-night comedy, and standing firmly by his side for over two decades is his wife, Liza Powel O'Brien. Their relationship, which began with a unique "meet-cute" filmed for television, has navigated the tumultuous waters of the entertainment industry, from the highs of *Late Night* to the major career transition of the *Tonight Show* debacle, and most recently, Conan's high-profile gig as the 2025 Oscars host. Liza, however, is far more than just a comedian's spouse; she is a creative force in her own right, building a multifaceted career as a playwright, a former advertising executive, and now, a podcaster. Liza Powel O'Brien has deliberately maintained a lower profile than her celebrity husband, but her professional achievements and personal support have been integral to Conan’s success and stability. The couple's enduring partnership, which has produced two children, is often cited by Conan as his anchor. This deep dive explores the full biography of Liza Powel, detailing her impressive academic background, her pivot from advertising to playwriting, and her exciting new venture into the world of history podcasts, a project Conan himself has publicly championed.

Liza Powel O'Brien: Full Biography and Profile

Liza Powel O'Brien, born Elizabeth Ann Powel, is an accomplished professional with a background in advertising, creative writing, and theater. She has successfully cultivated a career that is both intellectually stimulating and creatively fulfilling, separate from her husband's comedy empire.

• Full Name: Elizabeth Ann "Liza" Powel O'Brien
• Date of Birth: November 12, 1970
• Age (as of Dec 2025): 55 years old
• Place of Birth: Bainbridge Island, Washington, U.S.
• Spouse: Conan Christopher O'Brien (Married 2002)
• Children: Neve O'Brien (Daughter, born 2003) and Beckett O'Brien (Son, born 2005)
• Alma Mater: Vassar College (Bachelor's Degree), Columbia University School of the Arts (MFA in Fiction Writing)
• Primary Career: Playwright, Podcaster, Former Advertising Copywriter
• Notable Works: Plays performed at The Geffen Playhouse and Echo Theater; Host of a new history podcast (as of 2025).

The Unforgettable 'Meet-Cute' That Started It All

The story of how Conan O'Brien and Liza Powel met is one of Hollywood's most charming and unique anecdotes, primarily because the entire event was captured on tape. Their initial encounter occurred in March 2000, while Conan was filming a remote segment for his show, *Late Night with Conan O'Brien*. At the time, Liza Powel was working as a senior copywriter at the prestigious advertising agency Foote, Cone & Belding (FCB) in Chicago. Conan was visiting the firm to tape a comedic sketch exploring the world of advertising. While filming, he spotted Liza and was instantly smitten. Conan has often recounted the moment, describing it as love at first sight. He found her to be the "perfect person" for him, and the connection was immediate. Their initial meeting, which was meant to be a simple TV bit, quickly blossomed into a serious relationship. They dated for nearly two years before tying the knot in a private ceremony in Seattle, Washington, on January 12, 2002. This unconventional, on-camera start to their romance is a testament to the unpredictable nature of love, even for a major television star.

From Madison Avenue to the Stage: Liza's Diverse Career

Liza Powel O'Brien's professional life is a fascinating blend of corporate creativity, academic rigor, and artistic expression. Before her marriage, she was a successful copywriter, a role that required sharp wit and an understanding of human psychology—skills that undoubtedly resonate with her husband's profession.

The Shift to Playwriting and Academia

Following her time in advertising, Liza pursued her passion for creative writing, earning a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Fiction Writing from Columbia University's School of the Arts. This academic foundation led her to a career as a playwright. Her works have been produced and seen at respected venues, including The Geffen Playhouse and the Echo Theater. This transition from the fast-paced world of advertising to the nuanced, reflective art of the theater showcases her deep commitment to storytelling and the arts.

The Newest Venture: A History Podcast

In a move that brings her closer to the contemporary media landscape, Liza Powel O'Brien has recently launched a new history podcast. This venture was highlighted in the media in 2025, with Conan O'Brien himself promoting it on his own highly successful platform, *Conan O'Brien Needs a Friend*. Conan's endorsement, where he called his wife's work "very talented" and a show he "absolutely love[s]," underscores the mutual support in their marriage. The podcast allows Liza to explore complex historical topics, appealing to a broad audience interested in deep-dive, narrative-driven content, further cementing her identity as a creative intellectual in the digital age. This new direction is a perfect example of how the couple continues to evolve their careers while supporting each other's individual passions.

A Rock-Solid Partnership Through Hollywood's Biggest Storms

The O'Briens' marriage has been tested by the intense scrutiny and professional challenges that come with life in the public eye. One of the most significant periods was the highly publicized *Tonight Show* transition in 2010. Liza's unwavering support during this tumultuous time was crucial for Conan, who has publicly credited her with helping him navigate the career setback and subsequent professional rebirth. Their family life, centered around their two children, Neve and Beckett, remains a priority. Despite Conan's demanding schedule, which included his long-running show *Conan* on TBS, his successful Team Coco podcast network, and the recent massive event of hosting the 2025 Academy Awards, the couple is known for maintaining a stable and private home life. Liza Powel O'Brien’s ability to maintain her own distinct professional identity—as a playwright, an academic, and now a podcaster—while being a supportive partner to a global comedy icon is a testament to her strength and independence. She is a powerful entity in her own right, proving that a successful marriage in Hollywood can be built on a foundation of mutual respect, shared intelligence, and a genuine, funny, on-camera beginning. The longevity of their union, now spanning over 25 years since they first met, makes them one of the most enduring and admired couples in the entertainment industry.