Conan O'Brien

Conan O'Brien, a man whose name practically screams "Irish Catholic," has nonetheless been a perennial favorite in the "Is He Jewish?" sweepstakes. Perhaps it's the quick wit, the self-deprecating humor, or maybe just the sheer volume of his comedic output that makes people wonder. He is, after all, a Harvard man, which only adds to the mystique, as does a cameo in the movie P.S. I Love You, where he plays himself.

Born in Brookline, Massachusetts, a town known for its substantial Jewish population, O'Brien grew up surrounded by the very people his fans mistakenly believe him to be. His lineage, however, is as Irish as a shamrock in a stout. His parents, Thomas Francis O'Brien and Ruth O'Brien (nee Reardon), ensured a perfectly gentile upbringing. One can almost picture the parish priest beaming.

Despite the clear evidence of his goyishe roots, the "Conan is Jewish" myth persists with the tenacity of a bad internet meme. He's even acknowledged the phenomenon, often with a wry chuckle, but never quite extinguishing the hope in the hearts of those who yearn for another famous Jewish comedian.

So, while we could kvell over his impressive career, from The Simpsons to Late Night to Conan, ultimately, he's not one of ours. Still, he's made us laugh for decades, and that's something, even if it doesn't come with a side of gefilte fish.