Harry Met Sally… Again: Crystal & Ryan Charm the Oscars with Nostalgia and Wit
The 96th Academy Awards ceremony wasn’t just about celebrating the year’s cinematic achievements; it was also a delightful reunion, a comforting return to familiar faces and cherished memories. The audience erupted in applause as Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal, the iconic duo from the beloved romantic comedy "When Harry Met Sally…", graced the stage to announce the night’s Best Picture winner. Their presence was a masterstroke, a perfectly timed injection of warmth and humor into the glittering spectacle.
The pair didn’t disappoint. Their opening banter was a seamless blend of self-deprecation, nostalgia, and playful chemistry, instantly transporting the audience back to the cozy familiarity of Katz’s Delicatessen and the witty repartee that defined "When Harry Met Sally…". Crystal, a seasoned Oscars veteran, immediately established his presence, reminding everyone of his long and storied history with the awards show. "It’s great to be back because, you know, I used to work here," he quipped, referencing his many years as the show’s host. He then added a touch of self-deprecating humor, joking that his first time hosting was "nine tuxedos ago."
For those who might have forgotten just how integral Crystal was to the Oscars for over a decade, he subtly reminded them of his extensive tenure. "Actually, my first time hosting it was 35 years ago this month," he added, a statement that underscored his enduring legacy in the world of entertainment. He then playfully poked fun at his own age, referencing his IMDb page and its purported inaccuracy: "It’s weird because on my IMDb page, I’m 47."
The interaction between Ryan and Crystal felt effortless, a testament to their genuine friendship and decades-long working relationship. After Crystal’s opening remarks, Ryan steered the conversation towards the task at hand, playfully suggesting they "cut to the chase." Crystal, ever the comedian, responded with a perfectly timed paraphrase of their classic rom-com, a line that resonated deeply with the audience: "When you have a chance of being an Oscar winner for the rest of your life, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible." The line was met with enthusiastic applause, a clear indication of the enduring power of "When Harry Met Sally…" and its place in the hearts of moviegoers.
Before their appearance, host Conan O’Brien amplified the excitement, introducing the segment as "when Harry reunited with Sally." He further heaped praise upon Crystal, calling him "the best Oscar host ever," a sentiment echoed by many in the audience and online. The anticipation was palpable, and Ryan and Crystal delivered, bringing a much-needed dose of levity and genuine connection to the often-formal proceedings.
Ultimately, the Best Picture award of the night went to "Anora," but the real highlight for many was the chance to see Ryan and Crystal together again, reminding everyone of the magic they created on screen and the enduring impact of their collaboration.
This Oscars appearance wasn’t an isolated event. In recent years, Ryan and Crystal have rekindled their on-screen partnership, much to the delight of their fans. They recently appeared in a Super Bowl commercial, a lighthearted reminder of their enduring appeal. Before that, they reunited at Crystal’s Kennedy Center Honors ceremony in 2023, a testament to his significant contributions to the performing arts.
The article also sheds light on the origins of one of the most iconic lines in cinematic history: "I’ll have what she’s having." Crystal himself conceived the line, which has become synonymous with the film and a cultural touchstone for generations. The scene, set in the legendary Katz’s Delicatessen, is a masterclass in comedic timing and improvisation, and it’s clear that the chemistry between Ryan and Crystal was instrumental in its success.
During Crystal’s Kennedy Center Honors showcase, a makeshift Katz’s Delicatessen was erected, further highlighting the enduring legacy of the film and the scene in particular. Ryan delivered a heartfelt tribute to Crystal at the event, emphasizing the ease and naturalness of working with him. "The scene came really naturally to me, and I really have Billy to thank for that," she said, eliciting knowing snickers from the audience. She continued her playful banter, joking that she’d "never been around anyone who made faking an orgasm easier," a reference to the film’s most famous scene.
Beyond the humor, Ryan’s tribute also revealed the deep affection and respect she holds for Crystal. She concluded on a more serious and heartfelt note, saying, "As his wife Janice has known for over 50 years, falling in love with Billy is a pretty easy thing to do." This statement underscored the genuine connection between Ryan and Crystal, both on and off screen, and the enduring power of their friendship. Their Oscars appearance was more than just a presentation; it was a celebration of their shared history, their undeniable chemistry, and the enduring legacy of "When Harry Met Sally…" – a reminder that some things, like great comedy and genuine friendship, truly stand the test of time. Their appearance served as a delightful intermission, a warm embrace of the past that perfectly complemented the celebration of the present and future of cinema.
