Bradley Cooper may not have won the best actor award at the 2024 Oscars, but he did make a memorable guest appearance on the TV show 'Abbott Elementary' after the ceremony. Known for his serious roles, Cooper lightened up on the show, poking fun at his own image.
In the episode, Cooper's character visits a classroom, where students and teachers are starstruck by his presence. He engages in playful banter with the students, discussing his favorite hoagie spot in Philadelphia and joking about being mistaken for a Marvel superhero.
Cooper's appearance on 'Abbott Elementary' came after his Oscar-nominated performance in 'Maestro,' a film he wrote, directed, produced, and starred in. Despite critical acclaim for his past roles in films like 'Silver Linings Playbook' and 'A Star Is Born,' 'Maestro' received mixed reviews.
During the awards season, Cooper's promotional efforts for 'Maestro' were met with some criticism. His candid comments in interviews, including oversharing personal details and throwing shade at his competitors, rubbed some people the wrong way.
Cooper's six-year preparation for 'Maestro' was contrasted with Cillian Murphy's six-month preparation for 'Oppenheimer,' a role that ultimately earned Murphy the best actor award at the Oscars. Cooper's intense campaign for the award season, along with other stars' attempts to impress the Academy, led to some fatigue among audiences.
Despite the ups and downs of awards season, Cooper's appearance on 'Abbott Elementary' provided a lighthearted moment for fans. As the dust settles on the Oscars, perhaps it's time for Cooper and the internet to take a breather and enjoy a hoagie.