Los Angeles, CA – The 98th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien on Sunday, March 15, 2026, delivered a night of both expected triumphs and surprising upsets, solidifying its place as Hollywood’s most prestigious event. The action thriller One Battle After Another emerged as the night’s biggest winner, taking home six Oscars, including the coveted Best Picture award. However, the ceremony was also marked by historic wins for Michael B. Jordan and Jessie Buckley, adding significant moments to the Academy’s nearly 100-year history. The 2026 Oscars showcased a blend of established talent and rising stars, captivating audiences worldwide and sparking conversations about the future of cinema.
The evening’s biggest honor, Best Picture, went to One Battle After Another, a film that resonated with both critics and audiences. Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, the film’s success was further amplified by Anderson’s win for Best Director. This marks a significant achievement for Anderson, cementing his status as one of the leading filmmakers of his generation. The film also secured wins in several other categories, demonstrating its broad appeal and technical excellence. The win for One Battle After Another signals a continued appreciation for complex narratives and strong directorial vision within the Academy.
Historic Wins for Buckley and Jordan
Jessie Buckley’s win for Best Actress for her performance in Hamnet is particularly noteworthy, as she became the first Irish actor to receive the award. As reported by ABC News, Buckley’s portrayal of Agnes Shakespeare was lauded for its emotional depth and nuanced performance. This win not only celebrates Buckley’s talent but also represents a significant milestone for Irish representation in Hollywood. Her success is expected to inspire a new generation of actors from Ireland and beyond.
Perhaps the most surprising win of the night came in the Best Actor category, where Michael B. Jordan triumphed over formidable competition, including Leonardo DiCaprio and Timothée Chalamet. Jordan’s performance in Sinners earned him the award, making him the sixth Black actor to win in the Academy’s history. People Magazine highlighted the significance of this win, acknowledging the historical context and the importance of increased representation in the film industry. Jordan’s victory is a testament to his talent and a step forward in recognizing diverse voices in Hollywood.
A Night of Technical Achievements and Musical Highlights
Beyond the acting and directing awards, the 2026 Oscars celebrated excellence in technical fields. Autumn Durald Arkapaw made history as the first woman to win the Oscar for Best Cinematography for her perform on Sinners. According to ABC News, this win breaks a long-standing barrier and paves the way for greater inclusivity in cinematography. Paul Thomas Anderson also secured the award for Best Directing for One Battle After Another, further solidifying the film’s dominance at the ceremony.
The ceremony also featured a standout musical performance with Kpop Demon Hunters winning Best Original Song for “Golden.” NPR reported that the win highlights the growing influence of K-Pop on the global music scene and its increasing recognition within the film industry. The song’s catchy melody and powerful lyrics resonated with audiences, contributing to its success at the awards.
Expanding Recognition: International Films and Casting
The Academy Awards also recognized international cinematic achievements. Sentimental Value was awarded Best International Feature Film, showcasing the power of global storytelling. This win underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating films from diverse cultural backgrounds. The 2026 Oscars introduced a new award for Achievement in Casting, with Cassandra Kulukundis of One Battle After Another taking home the inaugural prize. As noted by NPR, this new category acknowledges the crucial role casting directors play in bringing compelling stories to life.
A Moment of Activism
The ceremony wasn’t solely focused on awards and entertainment. Javier Bardem used his presenting moment to voice support for Palestine, stating “No to war and free Palestine.” NPR reported that this statement reflects a growing trend of actors using the Oscars platform to raise awareness about global issues. David Borenstein, co-director of the winning documentary Mr. Nobody Against Putin, also used his acceptance speech to address the dangers of complicity and the importance of standing up against oppression.
Full List of Winners
Here’s a comprehensive list of the winners from the 2026 Academy Awards, as reported by multiple sources:
- Best Picture: One Battle After Another
- Actress in a Leading Role: Jessie Buckley (Hamnet)
- Actor in a Leading Role: Michael B. Jordan (Sinners)
- Directing: Paul Thomas Anderson (One Battle After Another)
- Music (Original Song): “Golden” by Kpop Demon Hunters
- International Feature Film: Sentimental Value
- Cinematography: Autumn Durald Arkapaw (Sinners)
Other nominees included Bugonia, F1, Hamnet, Frankenstein, Marty Supreme, Sinners, and Train Dreams, demonstrating the breadth of talent and creativity within the film industry.
The 98th Academy Awards concluded on a high note, celebrating cinematic achievements and highlighting the evolving landscape of Hollywood. The wins for One Battle After Another, Jessie Buckley, and Michael B. Jordan, along with the introduction of the new casting award, signal a commitment to recognizing both artistic excellence and greater inclusivity within the industry.
The Academy Awards will return in 2027. Further details regarding the nomination process and eligibility requirements will be announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in the coming months. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continued coverage of the entertainment industry and the latest updates on the 2027 Oscars. We encourage you to share your thoughts on this year’s winners and the evolving landscape of Hollywood in the comments below.