Oscars 2026: What to expect from Hollywood’s biggest night this year

What to expect from Oscars 2026?

• Oscars air live on 16 March, repeat telecast at 9 pm
• Sinners sets record with 16 nominations, surpassing Titanic
• Conan O’Brien returns as host for the second consecutive year

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Hollywood’s biggest night is almost here. The 98th Academy Awards will air live on 16 March at 4:30 am, with a repeat telecast at 9 pm, simulcast across Star Movies, Star Movies Select, Colors Infinity and JioHotstar.

For film lovers across the globe, it is that one evening — or early morning — when cinema takes centre stage and the world pauses to celebrate storytelling.

From glittering red carpet arrivals to emotional speeches that become part of pop culture history, the Oscars are about far more than golden statuettes.

This year, the buzz feels bigger than ever. Ryan Coogler’s epic drama Sinners has made history with 16 nominations — the highest number ever achieved by a single film, surpassing the previous record of 14 held by Titanic and La La Land.

The performances of Michael B. Jordan and Delroy Lindo have dominated conversations, while the film’s technical brilliance has made it a favourite in multiple categories.

Yet the race is anything but predictable. Paul Thomas Anderson’s One Battle After Another has gathered late momentum, fuelled by strong critical backing. Chloé Zhao’s Hamnet brings emotional depth and quiet power, while titles such as Marty Supreme, Frankenstein and Train Dreams round out a fiercely competitive Best Picture line-up. Industry observers describe this year as one of the most open races in recent memory.

Also Read: Priyanka Chopra announced as Oscars 2026 presenter alongside Robert Downey Jr, Gwyneth Paltrow and Anne Hathaway

Adding to the excitement, Conan O’Brien returns as host for the second consecutive year. The Emmy Award-winning comedian, joined by executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, is expected to bring his trademark wit and playful sharpness to a ceremony packed with high stakes. With tight contests across acting and technical categories, his humour may be needed more than ever.

Another change this year has been accessibility. All ten Best Picture nominees are available either in theatres or on streaming platforms, allowing more viewers to watch and form opinions before the big night. That broader engagement has only heightened anticipation.