Oscars 2026: Anticipation Builds for the 98th Academy Awards, Extending Beyond Current Nominees

As the 98th Academy Awards draw near this Sunday, the excitement is palpable not just for the nominees, but for the entire spectacle surrounding the event.

All eyes are on the illustrious presenters gracing the stage, the eagerly anticipated special performances, and, of course, the glitzy after parties that follow the ceremony, leaving much to the imagination about what surprises the night will unfold.

This year, the awards season has been anything but ordinary, marked by unexpected turns and intense anticipation. However, come Sunday night, the world will finally discover which talented individuals and films will emerge as Oscar winners.

The battle for Best Picture has captivated audiences, with “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another” leading the charge. Which of these cinematic achievements will claim the coveted prize?

In the Best Actor category, the competition remains fierce, keeping everyone on edge. This year’s race is truly a nail-biter, and the winner’s announcement is sure to be a highlight of the evening.

Then there’s the ultra-competitive supporting categories that are still up in the air.

“I cannot overstate this enough, and it’s usually a clickbait type of way of saying, any of the five can win,” said Variety Chief Awards Editor Clayton Davis. “I mean it with every fiber of my being.”

As soon as the winners take those first steps off stage, it’s time for the official Oscars after party, the Governor’s Ball.

It’s where winners get their new statues engraved, then mix, mingle, and enjoy the creations of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck.

“Presenters include Nicole Kidman, Jimmy Kimmel, Pedro Pascal and Channing Tatum, plus last year’s winners Adrien Brody, Zoe Saldana, Kieran Culkin and Mikey Madison.

Also gracing the stage will be performances by KPop Demon Hunters, and a star-studded rendition of “I Lied to You” from “Sinners,” that includes Miles Canton, Misty Copeland and Shaboozey.

Another win for nominees and viewers alike — Conan O’Brien is back as host.

Now, all we can do is wait and see who walks away with gold.

March 15 is Oscar Sunday! Watch the 2026 Oscars live on ABC and Hulu.

Live red carpet coverage starts at 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT with “On The Red Carpet at the Oscars.”Catch all the action on the red carpet live on ABC, or stream on Hulu and OnTheRedCarpet.com.The 98th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, begins at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. and will be followed by “The Bachelorette: Before the First Rose.”