ENTERTAINMENT
Oscars 2026: Start Time, Nominees, Predictions and How to Watch the Academy Awards
Hollywood’s biggest night returns as the 98th Academy Awards take place in Los Angeles, with major films competing for top honours and millions of viewers expected to tune in worldwide.
2 min read
By Aurax Desk | March 15, 2026
Exterior of the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood during Oscars night.
The 98th Academy Awards will take place on Sunday, March 15, at the Dolby Theatre, celebrating the best films released in 2025. The ceremony is hosted by comedian Conan O'Brien, returning for his second consecutive year as host.
The awards are presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which honours achievements in film across multiple categories including acting, directing, and technical production. This year’s ceremony will feature 24 award categories, including the introduction of a new Best Casting award.
Cast or still from Sinners
A Night of Film Celebration
The Oscars remain one of the most prestigious awards events in the film industry, drawing global attention each year. Along with the awards, the show will feature musical performances, celebrity presenters, and tributes to figures who have made lasting contributions to cinema.
With several high-profile films competing and a closely watched Best Picture race, the 2026 ceremony promises to be one of the most competitive Oscars in recent years.
Oscars statuettes
Start Time and Where to Watch
The ceremony will begin at 7:00 p.m. Eastern Time (4:00 p.m. Pacific Time) in the United States. Official red carpet coverage typically begins earlier in the evening before the main event.
In the U.S., viewers can watch the Oscars live on American Broadcasting Company. The broadcast will also stream online through platforms such as Hulu, along with other live television streaming services that carry ABC.
Internationally, the ceremony will be broadcast in many countries through local networks and streaming platforms, allowing global audiences to follow Hollywood’s biggest night.
Conan O’Brien to host the Oscars
