The 98th Academy Awards, celebrating cinematic achievements of 2025, are fast approaching, and the anticipation is building not only for the winners but also for the star power gracing the Dolby Theatre stage. This year’s ceremony, set for March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, promises a dazzling display of talent both presenting the awards and delivering live performances. Comedian Conan O’Brien is set to host for the second consecutive year, following acclaim for his previous hosting stint, with Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan returning as executive producers and Hamish Hamilton directing the display. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is preparing for a night that will honor excellence in film and entertain a global audience.
Beyond the nominees hoping to take home the coveted Oscars, a stellar lineup of presenters has been announced to guide the evening’s proceedings. The Academy has revealed a diverse group of actors, comedians, and performers who will be responsible for unveiling the winners in 24 categories, including the inaugural Best Casting award. This year’s ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC and streamed on Hulu, reaching millions of viewers across the United States, and beyond. The event is a cornerstone of the entertainment industry, and the presenters play a crucial role in maintaining its prestige and excitement.
A Star-Studded Presenting Lineup
The list of presenters reads like a who’s who of Hollywood talent. Rose Byrne, Nicole Kidman, Jimmy Kimmel, Delroy Lindo, Ewan McGregor, Wagner Moura, Pedro Pascal, Bill Pullman, Lewis Pullman, Channing Tatum, and Sigourney Weaver are among those confirmed to take the stage. This impressive group joins previously announced presenters including Will Arnett, Adrien Brody, Javier Bardem, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Kieran Culkin, Robert Downey Jr., Chris Evans, Anne Hathaway, Chase Infiniti, Mikey Madison, Paul Mescal, Demi Moore, Kumail Nanjiani, Gwyneth Paltrow, Maya Rudolph, and Zoe Saldaña. The breadth of talent underscores the Academy’s commitment to showcasing a diverse and captivating show.
Musical Performances to Highlight the Evening
The 98th Academy Awards will not only celebrate film but also feature captivating musical performances. Two Oscar-nominated original songs will be brought to life on stage: “Golden” from Netflix’s animated hit, “KPop Demon Hunters,” and “I Lied to You” from Ryan Coogler’s critically acclaimed “Sinners.” “Sinners” has made history with a record-breaking 16 nominations, setting a recent benchmark for Academy Awards recognition.
The performance of “Golden” will be particularly noteworthy, blending Korean instrumentalists and dance to celebrate the folklore and cultural inspiration behind the film. Singers Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami – the voices of the fictional K-pop group Huntrix featured in “KPop Demon Hunters” – will deliver the performance. Ejae recently shared her excitement about performing the song, which is also featured in a Super Bowl commercial, with Access Hollywood. Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq will perform “I Lied to You,” accompanied by a remarkable ensemble including Misty Copeland, Eric Gales, Buddy Guy, Brittany Howard, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, Jayme Lawson, Li Jun Li, Bobby Rush, Shaboozey, and Alice Smith. The Academy has stated that this performance will explore the role of music in “Sinners’” storytelling and pay homage to the film’s unique visual style.
“Sinners” Dominates the Nominations
Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners,” a blues-steeped vampire epic, has garnered an unprecedented 16 nominations, surpassing all previous records for Academy Award recognition. The film’s success reflects its critical acclaim and its impact on the cinematic landscape. The sheer number of nominations highlights the film’s artistic and technical achievements, and its potential to sweep the awards ceremony.
Additional Entertainment and Special Guests
Adding to the evening’s entertainment, singer Josh Groban and the Los Angeles Master Chorale will also make appearances. Their participation promises to elevate the musical experience and provide a memorable backdrop for the awards presentation. The inclusion of the Los Angeles Master Chorale underscores the Academy’s commitment to showcasing a diverse range of artistic talent.
Oscar nominees are also set to receive a lavish “Everyone Wins” gift bag valued at approximately $350,000. These gift bags are a long-standing tradition, filled with luxury items, travel experiences, and wellness retreats, offering a token of appreciation to all nominees regardless of whether they win an award.
Looking Ahead: The Academy’s Continued Commitment to Excellence
The 98th Academy Awards are poised to be a spectacular event, celebrating the best in filmmaking and showcasing a remarkable array of talent. The ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC and streamed on Hulu at 4 p.m. On March 15, 2026, allowing audiences worldwide to witness the magic of Hollywood’s biggest night. The Academy Scientific and Technical Awards will follow on April 28, 2026, recognizing the groundbreaking innovations that contribute to the art of filmmaking.
The Academy’s dedication to honoring both artistic and technical achievements underscores its commitment to the future of cinema. As the industry continues to evolve, the Academy Awards remain a vital platform for recognizing excellence and inspiring creativity. The upcoming ceremony promises to be a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring legacy of the Academy Awards.
The next key date for the Academy is April 28, 2026, with the presentation of the Scientific and Technical Awards. Stay tuned to Oscars.org for further updates and details on the awards ceremony and related events. We encourage you to share your predictions and thoughts on this year’s nominees in the comments below.
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