Sona Movsesian The Charismatic and Hilarious Sidekick of Conan O’Brien

Sona Movsesian is a name that has gained recognition and admiration among fans of late-night television, comedy, and podcasting. As the long-time assistant and sidekick to Conan O’Brien, Sona has captured audiences with her wit, humor, and candid personality. While she initially gained prominence through her association with Conan, she has since established herself as a public figure, podcaster, and author. This article will delve into Sona Movsesian’s life, career, and unique appeal that has made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Early Life and Background

Sona Movsesian was born on October 13, 1982, in Montebello, California. She is of Armenian descent and has always been proud of her cultural heritage. Growing up in a close-knit Armenian-American community, Sona embraced her background, which later became a significant aspect of her public persona.

She attended the University of Southern California (USC), where she earned a degree in Communication. Her academic background played a crucial role in shaping her career, allowing her to navigate the world of media and entertainment with confidence.

Career Beginnings

Sona’s journey into the entertainment industry started behind the scenes. After completing her studies, she landed a job as an NBC page, an entry-level position that has historically been a stepping stone for many successful media professionals. She later transitioned to working at “Late Night with Conan O’Brien,” where she eventually became Conan’s assistant.

At first, her role was purely administrative—managing schedules, coordinating logistics, and handling the demanding needs of working for a television personality. However, her natural humor and chemistry with Conan quickly made her a fan favorite. What started as occasional on-air appearances gradually turned into a consistent presence on various Conan-led projects.

Becoming a Fan Favorite

Sona Movsesian’s rise to fame is an organic and unique story in the entertainment industry. Unlike traditional celebrities, her recognition came from being her authentic self rather than pursuing fame deliberately.

Her interactions with Conan O’Brien were comedic gold. Whether it was her unapologetic honesty, her refusal to be overly deferential to her boss, or her humorous exasperation at Conan’s antics, she provided a perfect contrast to his self-deprecating humor. Fans loved her blunt and unfiltered personality, making her a key part of the Conan universe.

One of the most memorable aspects of their dynamic was Conan’s tendency to prank her, buy her ridiculous gifts, and involve her in absurd situations. Whether it was the infamous “Assistant’s Revenge” segment or her reaction to Conan’s spontaneous ideas, Sona consistently delivered genuine and hilarious moments.

Podcast Success: “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend”

In 2018, Conan O’Brien launched his podcast, “Conan O’Brien Needs a Friend,” alongside his assistant, Sona Movsesian, and producer Matt Gourley. The podcast quickly became a massive hit, featuring celebrity guests and candid conversations filled with humor and sincerity.

Sona’s role in the podcast is essential. She brings an everyday person’s perspective to conversations, grounding the often larger-than-life presence of celebrity guests and Conan himself. Her banter with Conan is one of the highlights of the show, with many fans tuning in specifically to hear their dynamic.

The podcast’s success further solidified Sona’s position as more than just an assistant—she had become a legitimate media personality in her own right.

Authoring “The World’s Worst Assistant”

In 2022, Sona Movsesian released her book, The World’s Worst Assistant, a humorous memoir that details her experiences working for Conan O’Brien. The book is filled with anecdotes, advice on how to be a “bad assistant,” and behind-the-scenes stories from her time working in late-night television.

The book was met with critical and fan acclaim, further establishing Sona as a comedic talent beyond her role as Conan’s assistant. Her self-deprecating humor and honesty resonated with readers, making the book a success.

Personal Life

Despite her increasing fame, Sona Movsesian remains grounded in her personal life. She married Tak Boroyan in 2018, and in 2021, she and her husband welcomed twin boys. Sona has been open about her experiences with motherhood, balancing her professional and personal life while maintaining her sense of humor.

Her Armenian heritage is also a significant part of her identity. She has used her platform to bring awareness to Armenian issues, including the Armenian Genocide and humanitarian causes related to Armenia and Artsakh.

Why Fans Love Sona Movsesian

Sona Movsesian’s appeal lies in her authenticity. She is not a polished, media-trained celebrity; instead, she is a relatable and hilarious person who found herself in the public eye by simply being herself. Fans appreciate her genuine friendship with Conan, her ability to hold her own in comedic situations, and her willingness to embrace the absurd.

She represents a refreshing change in the entertainment industry—someone who became famous for being unapologetically real rather than chasing stardom. Her success story is an inspiration for many who dream of working in media but do not necessarily want to conform to traditional expectations of fame.

Conclusion

Sona Movsesian’s journey from a behind-the-scenes assistant to a beloved media personality is one of the most unique success stories in entertainment. Her wit, humor, and down-to-earth personality have endeared her to fans worldwide. Whether she is bantering with Conan, hosting a podcast, or sharing her experiences in her book, Sona continues to bring laughter and joy to audiences.

As she continues to grow in her career, one thing remains certain—Sona Movsesian will always be more than just an assistant; she is a star in her own right.