In a significant announcement for the entertainment industry, famed comedian and late-night host Conan O’Brien has been confirmed to return as the host for the 98th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 15, 2026. This will mark O’Brien’s second time leading the Oscars, following his debut hosting gig earlier this year, which saw an impressive viewer turnout. The Academy and ABC are optimistic about his return, citing successful ratings and a captivating performance during this year’s event.

Article Subheadings
1) Return of a Comedy Icon
2) Remarkable Viewership Achievements
3) Production Team Familiarity
4) Social Media Impact and Streaming Innovation
5) Celebrated Career of Conan O’Brien

Return of a Comedy Icon

The film academy’s decision to bring back Conan O’Brien as the host of the Academy Awards stems from his previous success and unique comedic style. Known for his engaging and warm approach, O’Brien captivated audiences during the 97th Academy Awards. “The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” O’Brien quipped in a humorous statement following the announcement. His ability to harmonize comedy with the ceremonial aspects of the Oscars makes him a fitting choice for this prestigious event.

Remarkable Viewership Achievements

The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by O’Brien, garnered the largest audience the show has seen in five years, reaching approximately 19.7 million viewers. This statistic signifies a substantial boost compared to previous broadcasts, particularly attracting a demographic of younger viewers aged 18 to 49. Analysts attribute this uptick to the increasing trend of watching live events on mobile devices and laptops, transforming how audiences engage with televised events. Additionally, the ceremony was celebrated as the most-watched prime-time entertainment program of 2025, a remarkable achievement that reflects the revitalized interest in the Oscars under O’Brien’s leadership.

Production Team Familiarity

Joining O’Brien for next year’s show will be a familiar production team, including executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, alongside producers Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney. Their collaboration aims to recreate the engaging combination of humor and design excellence that was successful in the recent awards ceremony. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their enthusiasm for renewing their partnership with this talented team, emphasizing how this year’s broadcast celebrated the nominees and the film community with impactful visual storytelling.

Social Media Impact and Streaming Innovation

This year’s Oscars also achieved milestones in social media engagement, surpassing metrics from other significant events like the Grammy Awards and the Super Bowl. The successful integration of live streaming on Hulu marked a transitional moment for the Oscars, allowing broader access to viewers. Despite minor technical glitches during the stream, the move represented a crucial adaptation to modern viewing behaviors, enhancing the Oscars’ appeal among younger demographics who prefer online content platforms over traditional television.

Celebrated Career of Conan O’Brien

O’Brien, now 61, has had a legendary career as a late-night host, completing nearly three decades in the business. His tenure as the longest-working current late-night talk show host in the United States began after David Letterman retired in 2015, affirming O’Brien’s prominent status in entertainment. Aside from his hosting capacities, he has also showcased his talent for writing, contributing to popular shows such as Saturday Night Live and The Simpsons. O’Brien’s multifaceted career and comedic prowess are indicators of his ability to captivate audiences, presenting him as a prime candidate to lead the Oscars once more.

No.	Key Points
1	Conan O’Brien is set to host the Academy Awards again on March 15, 2026.
2	The 97th Academy Awards saw its highest viewership in five years, reaching nearly 19.7 million viewers.
3	A familiar production team will support O’Brien for the upcoming awards ceremony.
4	The Oscars successfully integrated live streaming on Hulu, despite minor technical issues.
5	O’Brien has an extensive career in late-night television and is known for his comedic talents.

Summary

The return of Conan O’Brien as the host of the 98th Academy Awards signifies the Academy’s intention to maintain the momentum garnered from the previous ceremony’s success. With a combination of established comedic flair and a proficient production team, expectations are high for a memorable show. This event will not only celebrate cinematic achievements but also build upon the social engagement that has characterized recent broadcasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Why has Conan O’Brien been chosen to host the Oscars again?

Conan O’Brien has been selected to return as host due to his successful debut performance in 2025, which attracted a large viewership and garnered positive feedback for his comedic style and ability to engage with the audience.

Question: What changes were made for the 2025 Academy Awards broadcast?

One of the significant changes for the 2025 broadcast was the integration of live streaming on Hulu, which allowed wider access to viewers, enhancing the Oscars’ reach among younger demographics who prefer online streaming services to traditional television.

Question: How did the viewership of the 97th Academy Awards compare to previous years?

The 97th Academy Awards recorded approximately 19.7 million viewers, making it the most-watched Oscars in five years, signifying a revitalized interest in the awards ceremony.

The 97th annual Academy Awards celebrated a night of significant recognition for filmmaking on March 2, 2025. Leading the nominees was “Emilia Pérez,” which garnered a remarkable 13 nominations. Following closely, both “The Brutalist” and “Wicked” received 10 nominations each, showcasing a diverse range of talent and storytelling. With a lineup that included impressive performances, the event captivated viewers, both on cable and streaming platforms, making it a memorable night for the film industry.

Article Subheadings
1) Broadcast and Streaming Details
2) Top Nominees and Their Impact
3) Winners and Highlights of the Night
4) Hosting the Oscars: A Comedic Touch
5) Venue and Context of the Event

Broadcast and Streaming Details

The 97th annual Academy Awards were broadcast live from the Dolby Theatre at 7 p.m. EST on March 2, 2025, with coverage available on ABC stations across the United States and various international platforms. Audiences worldwide eagerly awaited the presentation, which celebrated outstanding achievements in film over the past year. Additionally, this year marked a significant shift as the event was streamed live on multiple platforms, including Hulu, Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV, enabling viewers to catch the ceremony in real time if they missed the traditional broadcast.

For those unable to tune in during the live airing, the Academy Awards were made available for streaming the following day on ABC.com and Hulu. This move towards digital streaming enhances accessibility, allowing more fans to engage with the event and its highlights, which is becoming a commonplace expectation as viewership habits diverge from traditional cable.

Top Nominees and Their Impact

Leading the nominations was “Emilia Pérez,” produced by Netflix, a unique crime musical that tells the compelling story of a cartel leader undergoing personal transformation. Accumulating 13 nominations, the film only fell one nomination short of tying the all-time record for most nominations held by films such as “Titanic” and “La La Land,” each of which garnered 14 nominations in prior years. Despite the heavy nomination haul, “Emilia Pérez” concluded the night with only two awards, reflecting the fierce competition from outstanding films.

Other notable films included “The Brutalist” and “Wicked,” both picking up 10 nominations. Each nominated work offered narratives ranging from dramatic explorations to adventurous tales, showcasing an impressive diversity in genre and storytelling that resonated with a wide audience. The nominations are judged by the Academy, consisting of industry professionals, and they highlight the technical and artistic excellence within the film community.

Winners and Highlights of the Night

The prestigious Best Picture award went to “Anora,” emerging as a critical favorite amid stiff competition. “Anora” was recognized not only for its narrative depth but also for its production values and performances. The race included heavy hitters like “The Brutalist,” “Wicked,” and “Dune: Part Two,” making the recognition of “Anora” all the more significant. This year’s Best Actor award was secured by Adrien Brody for his performance in “The Brutalist,” celebrated for its emotional depth and character authenticity.

In the Best Actress category, Mikey Madison from “Anora” took home the award amidst contenders including Cynthia Erivo and Karla Sofía Gascón. Madison’s portrayal captivated audiences and critics alike, contributing to her ascendancy in the industry. This year’s ceremony also highlighted various technical categories, showcasing the efforts of countless creatives behind the scenes. The night was filled with emotional speeches and moments of laughter, encapsulating the essence of the film community coming together to honor its finest.

Hosting the Oscars: A Comedic Touch

The iconic role of host for the Academy Awards was taken on by beloved comedian Conan O’Brien, stepping into the spotlight with his trademark humor. O’Brien succeeded Jimmy Kimmel, who had hosted the event multiple times prior. His appointment generated excitement, with his reputation for bringing levity to the ceremonial proceedings. In a humorous statement, O’Brien referred to his hosting duties by jokingly linking it to the launch of a new Taco Bell product, reflecting his characteristic comedic flair.

Throughout the evening, O’Brien delivered one-liners and comedic commentary that kept audiences engaged, offering a refreshing take on the often serious tone of the awards. His engaging style, balanced by moments of poignant sincerity, provided a memorable touch to this year’s event, drawing in both long-time followers of the Oscars and new audiences experiencing it for the first time.

Venue and Context of the Event

The 97th Academy Awards took place at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, a venue synonymous with cinematic glory. This year’s event was particularly poignant as it occurred less than two months following devastating wildfires that swept through the Los Angeles area, impacting many residents and businesses. The awards served not only as a celebration of cinema but also as an occasion to reflect on community resilience in the face of adversity.

In light of the recent tragedies, the ceremony included moments of acknowledgment for those affected by the wildfires, reminding viewers of the human stories behind the glamour. The messages shared throughout the night intended to raise awareness and promote solidarity, showcasing the film industry’s ability to unite people even amidst challenges.

No.	Key Points
1	The Academy Awards featured prominent films, celebrating excellence in the motion picture industry.
2	“Emilia Pérez” led with 13 nominations, closely followed by “The Brutalist” and “Wicked.”
3	The Best Picture award was won by “Anora,” marking a highlight of the ceremony.
4	Comedian Conan O’Brien hosted the event, adding humor and personality to the proceedings.
5	The ceremony took place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, amidst recovery efforts from recent wildfires.

Summary

The 97th Academy Awards not only highlighted artistic brilliance but also resonated with a sense of community and shared experience. The event, combining glamorous tributes to cinematic achievements with heartfelt acknowledgments of recent hardships, defined a unique moment for attendees and viewers alike. As films like “Anora” and “Emilia Pérez” garnered attention and acclaim, the Academy Awards continued to evolve, reflecting both the artistic and societal narratives of our time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What major films were nominated for the Best Picture award this year?

This year, major films nominated for Best Picture included “Emilia Pérez,” “The Brutalist,” “Wicked,” “Anora,” “Dune: Part Two,” and several others, showcasing a diverse range of storytelling.

Question: Who won the Best Actor award at this year’s Oscars?

The Best Actor award was won by Adrien Brody for his performance in “The Brutalist,” recognized for its emotional depth and authentic portrayal.

Question: How has streaming affected the viewing experience of the Academy Awards?

Streaming services allowed audiences to watch the Oscars in real time and offered on-demand viewing the next day, enhancing accessibility and expanding audience reach.

The 2025 Oscars have captivated audiences with a remarkable lineup of films vying for prestigious titles at the 97th Academy Awards. Films such as “Conclave,” “Emilia Pérez,” “A Complete Unknown,” “Wicked,” and “The Brutalist” have garnered significant attention, particularly in the coveted best picture category. This year, “Emilia Pérez” leads the nominations with a total of 13, showcasing not only exceptional talent but also generating controversy involving its star, Karla Sofía Gascón, the first transgender woman nominated for an acting award.

The ceremony, hosted by Conan O’Brien, has taken place in the famed Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, broadcasted live across ABC television stations. As the night unfolds, various categories will be announced, spotlighting the talents of recognized actors and filmmakers, along with establishing new benchmarks in Oscar history.

The Oscars not only celebrate achievements in filmmaking but serve as a platform for conversations surrounding representation and inclusivity in the film industry. This article will delve into the event’s highlights, key nominations, and noteworthy moments, reinforcing the awards’ significance in recognizing artistic excellence. 

Article Subheadings
1) The Leading Contenders for Best Picture
2) Historic Nominations Spark Controversy
3) Best Actor Category Highlights
4) Ceremony Details and Broadcast
5) Complete List of Winners and Nominees

The Leading Contenders for Best Picture

This year’s Oscars feature strong competition among the nominated films. Leading the pack is “Emilia Pérez,” which received a stunning 13 nominations, including best picture, best director, and best writing. The film not only showcases a rich narrative but also brings forth compelling performances that have resonated with both audiences and critics alike. The extensive nominations underline the strong presence it holds in various categories, elevating it as a frontrunner for the prestigious best picture award.

Following closely are “Wicked” and “The Brutalist,” each earning 10 nominations. “Wicked,” based on the hit Broadway musical, presents a unique lens on familiar tales by exploring the backstory of iconic characters from “The Wizard of Oz.” Similarly, “The Brutalist” delves into a thought-provoking narrative that has captured the attention of film lovers and Academy voters alike. The stakes are high as these films vie to turn their nominations into wins during the ceremony.

Historic Nominations Spark Controversy

One of the most notable stories to emerge from this year’s Academy Awards is the nomination of Karla Sofía Gascón for best actress for her leading role in “Emilia Pérez.” Gascón’s nomination marks a historic milestone as she becomes the first transgender woman nominated in any acting category at the Oscars. This groundbreaking recognition has sparked immense conversation regarding representation within the industry, as the film has positioned itself within multiple narratives of inclusion.

However, the nomination has not come without controversy. Offensive past social media posts attributed to Gascón resurfaced, raising questions about the impact of online behavior on public figures and the standard of representation. Despite this, her nomination stands as a beacon of progress for the LGBTQ+ community in Hollywood, prompting discussions about the importance of diversity and the ongoing challenges faced in achieving acceptance.

Best Actor Category Highlights

In the best actor category, Timothée Chalamet is nominated for his portrayal of the legendary folk musician Bob Dylan in “A Complete Unknown.” Competing against a formidable lineup that includes actors like Adrian Brody, Ralph Fiennes, Colman Domingo, and Sebastian Stan, Chalamet’s performance has attracted considerable accolades. If he wins, he would break the record held by Brody as the youngest recipient of the best actor award, highlighting the pressure and prestige surrounding this particular category.

With stories that delve into complex characters and varying moral themes, each nominee has crafted performances that will likely go down in Oscar history. The competition between these talented actors is fierce, and while Chalamet has observed historical significance, others like Domingo could also make headlines if they take home the win, setting a new precedent as the first actor to win an Oscar for portraying a sitting U.S. president.

Ceremony Details and Broadcast

The 2025 Oscars took place at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, a traditional venue known for hosting prestigious events in the film industry. This year marked Conan O’Brien‘s debut as the host of the Academy Awards, a shift from his previous experience in hosting the Primetime Emmy Awards. The choice of host aims to infuse a new energy into the ceremony, drawing on O’Brien’s unique comedic style, ensuring viewers are both entertained and engaged throughout the night.

The event was broadcast live on ABC television stations, bringing viewers around the nation front-row seats to witness the accolades and celebrations of the film industry’s finest. As stars were celebrated for their talents and achievements, the production sought to highlight not only individual accomplishments but also the broader narratives that shape contemporary cinema.

Complete List of Winners and Nominees

As the night progresses, the full list of winners and nominees will be revealed across various categories, showcasing exceptional talent from both emerging and established filmmakers. In the best supporting actor category, Kieran Culkin won for his role in “A Real Pain,” while Zoe Saldaña took home the award for best supporting actress for “Emilia Pérez.” The winners of various technical categories, including best animated feature—awarded to “Flow”—and best original song, which recognized “El Mal” from “Emilia Pérez,” will play a significant role in shaping the narrative of the evening.

In a demonstration of excellence across all categories, the ceremony reveals not only winners but also highlights the vast array of storytelling present in the film medium. The complete list will encompass numerous insightful achievements that mark the continued evolution and recognition of artistry in cinema.

No.	Key Points
1	“Emilia Pérez” leads the nominations with 13, focusing on representation in cinema.
2	Karla Sofía Gascón’s historic nomination sparks dialogue and controversy.
3	Timothée Chalamet competes for the best actor award amid high expectations.
4	Conan O’Brien hosts the ceremony, bringing a fresh tone to the awards show.
5	The Oscars continue to celebrate achievements while highlighting industry challenges.

Summary

The 2025 Oscars underscore the evolving landscape of cinema through extensive representation, memorable performances, and historical milestones. As films like “Emilia Pérez,” “Wicked,” and “A Complete Unknown” lead the nominations, these awards reflect the complexities surrounding artistic merit, inclusivity, and cultural narratives. The prestigious event not only honors individual talent in acting, directing, and writing but also fosters essential discussions about diversity and the future of the film industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What is the significance of the Oscars in the film industry?

The Oscars, or Academy Awards, are one of the most prestigious awards in the film industry, recognizing excellence in cinema across various categories, thus providing a platform for artistic achievement and encouraging industry standards.

Question: Who hosted the 2025 Oscars?

The 2025 Oscars were hosted by Conan O’Brien, marking his first time leading the Academy Awards ceremony.

Question: What was a notable historic moment at this year’s Oscars?

A notable historic moment was the nomination of Karla Sofía Gascón, the first transgender woman nominated for an acting award, highlighting progress in representation within Hollywood.

The 2025 Academy Awards, set to take place soon, are generating buzz not just for honoring cinematic achievements but also for their unique musical lineup. Traditionally, the Oscars feature live performances of the nominated songs, but this year marks a significant departure from the norm, as none of the nominated songs will be performed during the ceremony. Instead, a host of high-profile performers will grace the stage, including stars from the hit musical “Wicked,” as well as renowned artists from various genres.

Article Subheadings
1) Switch from Traditional Performances
2) Featured Performers and their Roles
3) Celebrity Highlights and Nominees
4) Special Appearances and Collaborations
5) What’s Next for the Academy Awards?

Switch from Traditional Performances

In a departure from its usual format, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that none of the five nominated songs for this year’s Oscars will be performed live during the ceremony. In previous years, the Oscars featured live renditions of songs nominated for Best Original Song, turning the event into a musical celebration. However, this move, while surprising for fans of the genre, seems to be a strategic choice intended to shift the focus back to the film itself, emphasizing storytelling over song performance.

The Academy explained that the ceremony’s core will revolve around “celebrating the filmmaking community and some of its legends.” This decision may also reflect a growing trend in award shows, which are increasingly moving towards honoring overall cinematic achievements rather than just individual musical moments. With this shift, the Oscars aim to create a more cohesive and thematic experience for viewers.

Featured Performers and their Roles

Amidst the changes, the show will still feature a dazzling lineup of performances from some of Hollywood’s most celebrated talents. Co-stars of the anticipated musical “Wicked,” Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, are set to kick off the ceremony with a medley from the film that has garnered significant acclaim, receiving ten nominations, which include honors for both actresses in the leading and supporting categories.

While exact details about their performance have not been disclosed, anticipation is high as both performers are known for their vocal prowess. Cynthia Erivo, a three-time Oscar nominee, is acclaimed for her previously powerful performances, whereas Ariana Grande is making her Oscar debut this year. This marks a significant moment in both their careers, showcasing their talents on one of the biggest stages in entertainment.

Celebrity Highlights and Nominees

The nominations at the 2025 Oscars span various genres and styles, reflecting a rich tapestry of cinematic storytelling. Besides the musical nominees, the ceremony will recognize achievements across drama, comedy, and animation. Among the high-profile nominees are actors and filmmakers who have left an indelible mark on the film industry over the past year.

In addition to Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the list of performers also includes talents like Doja Cat, Queen Latifah, RAYE, and LISA from the globally renowned group Blackpink. Their inclusion showcases a blend of pop, musical theater, and hip-hop, catering to a diverse audience and reflecting current cultural trends in entertainment.

Special Appearances and Collaborations

One of the noteworthy aspects of the ceremony is the special appearance by the Los Angeles Master Chorale, adding a unique flair to the evening. Their involvement hints at possible collaborations that might feature intricate choral arrangements, possibly enhancing the musical performances presented during the night.

Furthermore, with past winners and nominees present in the audience, there is a palpable sense of excitement. This year’s Oscars aim not only to honor the current stars but to also pay homage to the legends who have paved the way, thus enriching the entire experience for everyone involved.

What’s Next for the Academy Awards?

Looking ahead, the Academy seems to be positioning itself towards a new direction, with a focus on broadening the appeal of the Oscars to attract younger audiences and enthusiastic filmgoers alike. The strategic decision to forego live performances of nominated songs could signal a larger evolution within the awards circuit, as organizers continuously seek fresh and engaging ways to capture viewer interest.

With technology and social media playing a crucial role in how audiences engage with such events, the Academy is recognizing the need to innovate. They may explore various options, such as collaborations with streaming platforms, to ensure that the spectacle remains relevant and exciting in a rapidly evolving entertainment landscape.

No.	Key Points
1	The 2025 Oscars will not feature live performances of the nominated songs, marking a significant change in tradition.
2	Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will perform a medley from “Wicked,” setting the tone for the ceremony.
3	The show will also include performances from Doja Cat, Queen Latifah, Blackpink’s LISA, and RAYE.
4	The Los Angeles Master Chorale will make a special appearance during the ceremony.
5	The Academy is exploring ways to continue attracting younger audiences in the changing landscape of entertainment.

Summary

The 2025 Academy Awards are set to redefine the viewing experience with a fresh approach that places emphasis on the filmmaking community rather than solely on musical performances. With an impressive lineup of performers and major shifts in format, the Oscars are looking to engage a diverse audience while honoring the artistry and creativity of the film industry. This year’s ceremony promises to be an exciting celebration of cinema that captivates viewers far beyond the typical norms of award shows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Will there be any live musical performances at the Oscars this year?

No, this year the Academy has announced that none of the nominated songs will be performed live.

Question: Who are some of the featured performers for the 2025 Academy Awards?

Featured performers include Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Doja Cat, Queen Latifah, RAYE, and Blackpink’s LISA.

Question: What unique aspect is included in this year’s Oscars?

A special appearance by the Los Angeles Master Chorale will be featured, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the ceremony.