Your Complete Guide to the 2026 Oscars: Everything You Need to Know
Hollywood’s Biggest Night Returns to the Dolby Theater
The entertainment world is buzzing with excitement as we count down to one of the most anticipated events of the year – the 98th Academy Awards. In just a matter of days, Hollywood Boulevard will transform into a glittering spectacle as the film industry’s brightest stars, most talented filmmakers, and creative visionaries gather to celebrate cinematic excellence. The prestigious ceremony will once again take place at the iconic Dolby Theater at Ovation Hollywood on March 15, 2026, continuing a tradition that has captivated audiences worldwide for nearly a century. This year’s event promises to be particularly special, as it will honor an exceptional year in filmmaking that has given us compelling stories, breathtaking performances, and groundbreaking technical achievements that have moved and inspired audiences around the globe.
What makes this year’s ceremony even more exciting is the return of beloved comedian and talk show host Conan O’Brien, who will be taking the stage as host for the second consecutive year. His successful debut at the 97th Academy Awards proved that his unique blend of wit, charm, and irreverent humor was the perfect fit for Hollywood’s most prestigious night. O’Brien’s ability to balance respectful celebration of cinematic achievement with entertaining comedy made last year’s show a memorable experience for both the star-studded audience in the theater and the millions watching from home. As he prepares to guide us through another evening of golden moments, anticipation is building for what clever observations and hilarious moments he’ll deliver this time around.
Celebrating an Outstanding Year in Cinema
The 2026 Oscars will shine a spotlight on an impressive slate of films that have captured the hearts and minds of audiences and critics alike over the past year. Among the standout projects expected to feature prominently in the night’s celebrations are “Hamnet,” a deeply moving adaptation that brings Shakespeare’s family story to vivid life; “Marty Supreme,” which has garnered praise for its compelling storytelling and powerful performances; and “Sinners,” a film that has sparked important conversations while delivering an unforgettable cinematic experience. These titles represent just a fraction of the remarkable work that filmmakers have produced, showcasing the diversity, creativity, and artistic ambition that continues to drive the film industry forward. From intimate character studies to sweeping epics, from thought-provoking dramas to innovative genre films, this year’s crop of contenders demonstrates that cinema remains a vital and vibrant art form capable of reflecting our world while transporting us to new ones.
How and Where to Watch the Star-Studded Ceremony
For movie lovers eager to catch every moment of this spectacular event, there are multiple convenient options available to ensure you don’t miss a single award, acceptance speech, or surprise moment. The ceremony will be broadcast for free over-the-air on your local ABC station, making it accessible to anyone with a television antenna – a wonderfully democratic approach that ensures this celebration of artistic achievement remains available to all. But in an exciting development that reflects our changing viewing habits, this year marks a historic first: the Oscars will also be available to stream on Hulu for the very first time. This streaming option provides additional flexibility for viewers who prefer to watch on their computers, tablets, or smart devices, or for those who want the freedom to pause and rewind if they need to step away during the broadcast.
The main ceremony will commence at 7 p.m. Eastern Time (4 p.m. Pacific Time), giving viewers across different time zones the opportunity to settle in for an evening of glamour, emotion, and celebration. Whether you’re planning an Oscars watch party with friends, enjoying a quiet evening at home with family, or following along on your own while texting reactions to fellow film enthusiasts, the multiple viewing options ensure that everyone can participate in this cultural moment in whatever way works best for them.
Don’t Miss the Red Carpet Extravaganza
For many fans, the excitement of Oscars night begins long before the first award is presented. The red carpet arrivals have become an integral part of the Academy Awards experience, offering a chance to see our favorite stars in their most glamorous looks and to share in the anticipation and nervous excitement that fills the air before the ceremony begins. This year, ABC’s special pre-show, “On the Red Carpet at the Oscars,” will kick off at 3:30 p.m. Eastern Time, giving viewers an extended opportunity to soak in all the fashion, interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments as the nominees and presenters make their way into the Dolby Theater.
The red carpet coverage will feature an impressive team of hosts including Linsey Davis, Whit Johnson, Lara Spencer, and Chris Connelly, all of whom bring their own unique perspectives and interviewing styles to the broadcast. These experienced journalists and entertainment reporters know exactly how to capture the emotion of the moment, asking the questions viewers want answered while allowing the personalities of the stars to shine through. You’ll be able to watch this pre-show coverage both on ABC and through streaming on ABC News Live, offering the same flexibility and multiple viewing options as the main ceremony. It’s the perfect way to build excitement and get yourself in the proper frame of mind for the awards show that follows, while also getting an early glimpse of who might be the night’s big winners based on the buzz and energy on the red carpet.
Staying Connected Throughout the Evening
In our interconnected digital age, experiencing the Oscars isn’t just about watching the broadcast – it’s about being part of a larger conversation that unfolds in real-time across multiple platforms. For those who want to stay completely up-to-date with every development, or for people who might not be able to watch the entire ceremony live, ABC News will be providing comprehensive coverage throughout the evening on both GoodMorningAmerica.com and ABCNews.com. These digital platforms will feature live updates, instant analysis, behind-the-scenes content, and all of the night’s biggest moments as they happen, ensuring that even if you step away from your television or stream, you won’t miss any of the acceptance speeches, surprise wins, or memorable moments that will have everyone talking.
This multi-platform approach to coverage recognizes that audiences today engage with major events in diverse ways. Some viewers want the traditional experience of watching the ceremony from beginning to end, while others prefer to dip in and out, catching the highlights and moments that matter most to them. The comprehensive online coverage ensures that however you choose to experience the Oscars, you’ll have access to all the information, context, and excitement that makes this night so special. For those planning ahead, ABC has also made available detailed guides about the nominees, presenters, and how to watch all of the year’s top nominated films if you want to catch up on any you might have missed before the big night.
The 98th Academy Awards represents more than just an awards ceremony – it’s a celebration of storytelling, artistry, and the collaborative magic that happens when talented people come together to create something meaningful. Whether you’re a devoted film buff who has seen every nominated performance and carefully studied each technical achievement, or a casual viewer who simply enjoys the spectacle and emotion of Hollywood’s biggest night, the 2026 Oscars promises to deliver an evening of memorable moments, well-deserved recognition, and perhaps a few delightful surprises along the way. So mark your calendars, prepare your viewing setup, and get ready to celebrate the best that cinema has to offer!
