The Venue and Host
The 98th Academy Awards will unfold at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Comedian Conan O’Brien returns as host for the second consecutive year, bringing his sharp wit and seasoned humor to Hollywood’s grandest stage. O’Brien, known for his meticulous preparation, has been refining his material through surprise stand-up sets. This year’s ceremony promises a blend of tradition and spontaneity, with last year’s acting award winners and a star-studded lineup of presenters enhancing the evening’s allure.
Nominees and Performers
Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’ leads the pack with a record-breaking 16 nominations, while Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another’ follows with 13. Other notable contenders include ‘Frankenstein’, ‘Marty Supreme’, and ‘Sentimental Value’, each securing nine nods. The acting categories are particularly competitive, with Jessie Buckley emerging as a frontrunner for Best Actress. Musical performances will feature Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami, among others, delivering live renditions of nominated songs.
The In Memoriam segment will pay tribute to industry legends such as Rob Reiner and Robert Duvall, adding a somber yet poignant note to the evening. A new category, Achievement in Casting, debuts this year, recognizing the crucial role casting directors play in filmmaking. Nominees include Nina Gold for ‘Hamnet’ and Francine Maisler for ‘Sinners’.
Red Carpet Coverage
The Oscars’ red carpet is a spectacle in its own right. ABC, the official broadcast partner, will air ‘On The Red Carpet at the Oscars’ starting at 3:30 p.m. ET, followed by ‘The Oscars Red Carpet Show’ at 6:30 p.m. ET. Hosts like Tamron Hall and Jesse Palmer will guide viewers through the glitz and glamour.
For those more fashion-focused, E!’s coverage kicks off with ‘Brunch at the Oscars’ at 2 p.m. ET, followed by ‘Live From The Red Carpet’ at 4 p.m. ET. Post-ceremony, E! offers ‘Red Carpet Rundown’ at 10:30 p.m. ET, ensuring a comprehensive look at the evening’s style highlights.
Viewing Options
The main event begins at 7 p.m. ET on ABC and Hulu. Traditional cable subscribers, Hulu users, and those with over-the-air antennas can enjoy the broadcast. ABC remains free with an antenna, and Hulu offers free trials for eligible viewers.
For cord-cutters, live-TV streaming services like YouTube TV, FuboTV, or DirecTV Stream provide viable alternatives. However, regional availability may vary, so it’s wise to verify channel access in your area. These options ensure that the Oscars remain accessible to a wide audience, regardless of their viewing preferences.
Facts Worth Knowing
- •💡 Ryan Coogler’s ‘Sinners’ has received 16 Oscar nominations, the most in history.
- •💡 ABC is the official broadcast partner for the Oscars, offering free over-the-air access.
- •💡 A new category, Achievement in Casting, debuts at the Oscars for the first time in 25 years.
