The 2026 Oscars ceremony is almost here; and for film fans, that means one thing. It’s time for Hollywood’s biggest night.
The Academy Awards celebrate the movies, performances, and creative teams that made the past year unforgettable. Whether you’re tuning in for the awards themselves, the red carpet fashion, or the host’s opening monologue, there’s a lot to look forward to.
Let’s break down everything you need to know before the show begins.
GettyHow to Watch the 2026 Oscars
If you’re planning your viewing party (or just settling in on the couch with snacks), the good news is that watching the ceremony will be easier than ever this year.
The 98th Oscars will broadcast live on ABC tonight, Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 7:00pm ET, continuing the long-standing tradition of airing the show on the network.
But there’s also a notable change for 2026. For the first time, the Oscars will also stream live on Hulu, giving viewers another option if they prefer to watch online rather than through traditional broadcast television. This move reflects how major live events are increasingly expanding to streaming platforms, helping more fans tune in from wherever they are.
Accessibility is also getting a boost this year. The Academy has partnered with LaVant Consulting Inc. to offer an American Sign Language (ASL) version of the ceremony, which will stream simultaneously on the Oscars’ official YouTube channel, allowing more viewers to experience the show in real time.
In short: whether you’re watching through cable, streaming, or YouTube accessibility coverage, there are plenty of ways to catch the action.
Red Carpet Coverage Starts Earlier
Of course, the Oscars aren’t just about the awards themselves. Half the fun is watching the stars arrive. The official red carpet pre-show kicks off at 6:30pm ET, hosted by fan-favorites Jesse Palmer and Tamron Hall.
This is where viewers can see the nominees, presenters, and A-list guests make their grand entrance before the ceremony begins. Expect plenty of interviews, fashion moments, and those fun little behind-the-scenes chats that give fans a glimpse into the excitement building inside the theater.
For many viewers, the red carpet is basically a pre-party for the main event. And honestly? It seems like half the internet will be talking about the outfits before the first award is even announced.
Conan O’Brien Returns as Host
And yep, Conan O’Brien is back to host the ceremony this year.
O’Brien first took on the hosting duties in 2025 and quickly proved he could balance the night’s big Hollywood celebration with his signature humor. His comedic style (sharp, clever, and just a little bit chaotic) tends to keep things moving while still letting the winners have their moment.
If you’ve seen Conan host anything before, you already know the opening monologue alone will probably be worth tuning in for.
The Oscars have always been about celebrating film, but the host often sets the tone for the entire night. With O’Brien back at the helm, fans can expect a mix of comedy, heartfelt moments, and the occasional unexpected surprise.
The Countdown to Hollywood’s Biggest Night
At the end of the day, the Oscars are still one of the biggest events in entertainment. From emotional acceptance speeches to unforgettable performances and viral red carpet moments, it’s the kind of show that tends to dominate conversations long after the final award is handed out.
So if you’re planning to watch, here is the need to know details:
- Event: The 98th Academy Awards a.k.a. The Oscars
- When: Sunday, March 15, 2026 at 7:00pm ET
- Red Carpet Pre-Show: Starts at 6:30pm ET.
Now all that’s left to do? Grab the popcorn, make your winner predictions, and settle in for Hollywood’s biggest night.
