The Oscars Enter a New Era: Security Concerns, Casting Recognition, and a Host Returns
The 98th Academy Awards are just days away, promising a night of celebration for 2025’s cinematic achievements. This year’s ceremony, taking place on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, will be broadcast on ABC and streamed live on Hulu, beginning with pre-display coverage at 3:30pm ET/12:30pm PT. The main event kicks off at 7pm ET/4pm PT/11pm GMT, and is expected to run for three hours.
‘Sinners’ Dominates the Nominations, Breaking Records
Leading the pack with a record-breaking 16 nominations is Sinners, surpassing the previous tie of 14 nominations held by All About Eve, Titanic, and La La Land. One Battle After Another follows closely behind with 13 nominations. The complete list of nominees can be found here.
New Categories and Recognition
The Academy is introducing a new award this year: Achievement in Casting. The first nominees are Nina Gold (Hamnet), Jennifer Venditti (Marty Supreme), Cassandra Kulukundis (One Battle after Another), Gabriel Domingues (The Secret Agent), and Francine Maisler (Sinners). The criteria for this award are proving complex, focusing on the artistry and impact of casting choices. In 2028, the Oscars will also recognize stunt function with a new award for Best Stunt Design.
Security Concerns and a Changing Landscape
The ceremony will take place under heightened security following an FBI warning to California police departments about a potential retaliatory drone strike from Iran. Although no specific details were provided, authorities are taking precautions.
Conan O’Brien Returns as Host
Conan O’Brien will host the Oscars for the second consecutive year. He announced his return shortly after the 2025 awards, joking about wanting to hear Adrien Brody finish his acceptance speech. O’Brien promises an even more elaborate show this year, building on his experience and understanding of the event’s standards and practices.
Presenters and Performers
A diverse group of presenters will take the stage, including Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Jimmy Kimmel, Delroy Lindo, and Nicole Kidman. A Marvel reunion is also teased, with the promise of “superstar superheroes” and even “an extraterrestrial” making an appearance. Performances will include “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters and “I Lied to You” from Sinners, with elaborate staging designed to showcase the films’ musical and storytelling elements. Josh Groban and the Los Angeles Master Chorale will also perform.
Controversy and Changing Rules
This year marks the first time Academy voters are required to verify they have actually seen the films they are voting on. Timothée Chalamet’s recent comments dismissing opera and ballet have sparked debate and criticism from the arts community, though this is unlikely to impact his chances at an award.
FAQ
- When are the Oscars? March 15, 2026.
- Where are the Oscars held? The Dolby Theater in Los Angeles.
- Who is hosting the Oscars? Conan O’Brien.
- How can I watch the Oscars? On ABC and streaming live on Hulu.
- What is the new award category? Achievement in Casting.
Image credit: Frank Micelotta/Disney via Getty Images
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