Oscars 2025 honours James Bond with a star-studded musical tribute featuring Halle Berry, Margaret Qualley, BLACKPINK's Lisa, Doja Cat and Raye

BLACKPINK’s Lisa delivered a stunning rendition of Live and Let Die, originally performed by Paul McCartney & Wings for the 1973 Bond film of the same name. (Image credit: AP)

The 2025 Academy Awards paid homage to one of Hollywood’s most enduring franchises—the James Bond series—with a grand tribute featuring music, dance, and nostalgia. The celebration came at a significant time for the franchise, which recently changed hands from longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G Wilson to Amazon Studios.

The tribute opened in dramatic fashion as actress Margaret Qualley emerged from the shadows in a striking scarlet dress. With elegance and intensity, she performed a dance routine set to the legendary 007 theme song, capturing the essence of Bond’s legacy.

Following Qualley’s performance, the spotlight shifted to a powerhouse lineup of musical artists. BLACKPINK’s Lisa delivered a stunning rendition of Live and Let Die, originally performed by Paul McCartney & Wings for the 1973 Bond film of the same name. Doja Cat followed with a bold take on Diamonds Are Forever, Shirley Bassey’s timeless theme from the 1971 Sean Connery-led installment. Raye then took the stage, mesmerising the audience with Skyfall, the Oscar-winning song from the 2012 Daniel Craig-starrer.

THE JAMES BOND TRIBUTE IS SO FUCKING PEAK!!!!!!Literally the only AMAZING thing about this years Oscars is this outstanding tribute of just how amazing James Bond really is, really love these versions of Live And Let Die, Diamonds Are Forever and especially Skyfall! pic.twitter.com/1LvyxFC5oP
Miguel Arcos - NEW MURDER DRONES MERCH!!! (@MiguelArtwork16) March 3, 2025

The tribute was introduced by Halle Berry, who played the fierce and unforgettable Jinx in 2002’s Die Another Day. The Oscar-winning actress reflected on her experience in the Bond universe, acknowledging both its cultural impact and its evolution over the years.

Since its debut in 1962 with Dr No, the James Bond series has become one of Hollywood’s most successful and enduring franchises. With 26 films spanning over six decades, the series has grossed over $7 billion worldwide.

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Bond’s music has also been an integral part of its success. Six Bond theme songs have been nominated for Best Original Song at the Oscars, with three winning—Skyfall by Adele, Writing’s on the Wall by Sam Smith, and No Time to Die by Billie Eilish.

The tribute also comes at a turning point for the franchise. In a major industry shakeup, Amazon Studios acquired creative control of the James Bond series in a deal worth $1.25 billion. This move has sparked speculation about the future of 007, especially after No Time to Die (2021) marked Daniel Craig’s final appearance as the iconic spy. The search for the next Bond and a director to steer the franchise into a new era is currently underway.