When and where to watch the 98th Academy Awards

Hollywood’s most glamorous event is approaching fast, and celebrities are already preparing their red carpet looks for the 98th Academy Awards. The highly anticipated ceremony will take place on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles. As always, the Oscars promise a mix of cinematic celebration, memorable fashion moments, and major star power.

Fans will be able to watch the event live from the comfort of their homes when the show airs at 7 p.m. ET on ABC and Hulu. For viewers eager to catch the red carpet arrivals, the official Oscars red carpet show begins at 6:30 p.m. ET. Fashion lovers can also tune in earlier for extended coverage on E!, which starts its red carpet broadcast at 4 p.m. ET.

Oscars 2026 Red Carpet: Fashion, Glamour, and Celebrity Style

The Academy Awards red carpet is one of the most-watched fashion moments of the year. Designers, stylists, and celebrities collaborate for months to create unforgettable looks that dominate headlines and social media.

Expect to see bold couture gowns, classic tuxedos, statement jewelry, and trend-setting beauty looks as Hollywood’s biggest stars arrive at the Dolby Theatre. Stylists often work closely with fashion houses to secure custom designs that debut exclusively on Oscar night.

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Over the years, the Oscars red carpet has launched fashion trends that influence the industry long after the ceremony ends. From vintage-inspired silhouettes to modern minimalist gowns, the red carpet remains a global style showcase.

Conan O’Brien Returns as Oscars Host

For the second consecutive year, comedian Conan O’Brien will host the Academy Awards. His return was confirmed shortly after he hosted the 97th ceremony in March 2025.

O’Brien quickly became a fan favorite for his ability to balance humor with respect for the film industry’s biggest achievements. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang praised his performance, noting that he guided the ceremony with humor and warmth.

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The comedian even joked about his return in a press release, referencing Adrien Brody’s lengthy acceptance speech at the previous ceremony. His sharp comedic timing and relaxed hosting style are expected to keep the evening entertaining.

Star Presenters Announced for the 2026 Oscars

The Academy has already revealed several high-profile presenters who will take the stage during the ceremony. Confirmed presenters include Javier Bardem, Chris Evans, Chase Infiniti, Demi Moore, Kumail Nanjiani, and Maya Rudolph. Their appearances add extra star power to a night already packed with major Hollywood names.

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Continuing the Oscars tradition, last year’s acting winners will also return to present awards. Adrien Brody, Kieran Culkin, Mikey Madison, and Zoe Saldaña are set to present the acting categories to this year’s winners.

Oscar Nominees 2026: A Competitive Year for Film

This year’s acting nominations highlight some of the most respected performers in the industry. The Best Actor category includes Michael B. Jordan, Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke, and Wagner Moura. The Best Actress lineup features Jessie Buckley, Emma Stone, Kate Hudson, Renate Reinsve, and Rose Byrne.

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In the supporting categories, nominees include Wunmi Mosaku, Elle Fanning, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, Amy Madigan, and Teyana Taylor for Best Supporting Actress. The Best Supporting Actor category includes Benicio del Toro, Jacob Elordi, Delroy Lindo, Sean Penn, and Stellan Skarsgård.

Timothée Chalamet also made history this year by becoming the youngest actor since Marlon Brando in 1954 to receive three Best Actor nominations.

Best Picture Nominees and Record-Breaking Films

Ten films are competing for Best Picture at the 2026 Oscars. The nominees include Bugonia, F1, Frankenstein, Hamnet, Marty Supreme, One Battle After Another, The Secret Agent, Sentimental Value, Sinners, and Train Dreams.

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One standout contender is Sinners, which earned an impressive 16 nominations. That milestone makes it the most nominated film in Oscars history, setting the stage for a potentially record-breaking night.

Oscars 2026 Musical Performances

While the previous ceremony skipped live performances, the 98th Academy Awards will feature at least two musical numbers from the Best Original Song nominees. “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters will be performed by Rei Ami, EJAE, and Audrey Nuna. Another nominated track, “I Lied to You” from Sinners, will be performed by Miles Caton.

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The remaining nominated songs will receive specially produced introduction segments during the broadcast. These include Diane Warren’s “Dear Me,” Nicholas Pike’s “Sweet Dreams of Joy,” and “Train Dreams” by Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner.

How to Watch the 2026 Oscars Live

With major nominees, anticipated performances, and a star-filled red carpet, the 2026 Oscars promise an unforgettable celebration of film. For viewers, the night offers the perfect mix of Hollywood glamour, historic wins, and standout fashion moments.