Oscars 2026: Host, presenters, nominees, and how to watch the 98th Academy Awards

Every year, the Academy Awards promise glamour, celebration and cinematic excellence. Yet alongside the standing ovations and golden statuettes, the Oscars have also become synonymous with controversy. From historic snubs and shocking onstage moments to debates about diversity and accountability, the ceremony has repeatedly sparked conversations that extend far beyond Hollywood. As the 97th Academy Awards approach, here is a look at 11 of the most talked-about controversies in Oscars history.

• Oscars 2026 will be held at Dolby Theatre on March 15
• Conan O’Brien returns as host for the second consecutive year
• "Sinners" leads with 16 nominations at the 98th Academy Awards

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The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, honouring the best films released in 2025. The prestigious ceremony will be hosted by Conan O’Brien, who returns for the second consecutive year after receiving positive reviews for his previous hosting stint.

When and where are the Oscars 2026?

The 2026 Oscars will be held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on March 15. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 7 pm ET / 4 pm PT, bringing together some of the biggest names in Hollywood to celebrate achievements in cinema.

Who is hosting the Oscars 2026?

Comedian and television host Conan O’Brien will host the Academy Awards for the second year in a row. Known for his sharp wit and late-night hosting experience, O’Brien is expected to bring humour and fresh energy to Hollywood’s biggest night.

Presenters at the 98th Academy Awards

Several prominent stars will appear as presenters at this year’s ceremony. The lineup includes Anne Hathaway, Robert Downey Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Chris Evans, Javier Bardem, Demi Moore and Maya Rudolph, among others.

Top nominees at the 2026 Oscars

The film “Sinners” leads the nominations with 16 nods, making it the most nominated film this year. Other major contenders include “Hamnet,” “One Battle After Another,” “Marty Supreme,” “F1,” “Frankenstein,” “The Secret Agent,” “Sentimental Value,” “Bugonia,” and “Train Dreams.”

Performances and special segments

The ceremony will also feature live performances of Best Original Song nominees, including “Golden” from KPop Demon Hunters and “I Lied to You” from Sinners, adding musical highlights to the star-studded evening.

Also read: Revisiting the moment RRR made India proud at the Oscars 2023 with ‘Naatu Naatu’

How to watch the Oscars 2026

Viewers can watch the awards ceremony live on ABC in the United States, while the event will also be streamed on Hulu and other streaming services. The red carpet coverage will begin earlier in the evening before the main ceremony starts.