Oscars 2026: A Wild Night With New Hosts and Big Surprises

The 2026 Oscars promise more drama than most years, with many top awards still undecided before the show starts. Two Warner Bros. releases are in a tight race for best picture and acting honors. “One Battle After Another” has already won major prizes at the Golden Globes and other guilds, giving its actors Sean Penn and Teyana Taylor strong chances for Oscars. The film’s creator, Paul Thomas Anderson, could also take home a writing award. At the same time, Ryan Coogler’s movie “Sinners” set a record for nominations and won at the Screen Actors Guild Awards. Its star Michael B. Jordan took home the lead actor prize there, showing that the picture is still in the mix.

The best‑actor contest is especially unpredictable. Timothée Chalamet earned early victories at the Globes and Critics Choice but has slipped since then. Leonardo DiCaprio could win if “One Battle After Another” dominates the night. Other hopefuls include Wagner Moura for “The Secret Agent” and Ethan Hawke for “Blue Moon, ” both of whom might surprise everyone. Conan O’Brien will return as host after a well‑received run last year, replacing Jimmy Kimmel who had been in the role for four seasons. The Academy’s decision to move the broadcast from ABC to YouTube in 2029 signals a new era for the ceremony and could bring fresh viewers. A highlight may come from the In Memoriam segment rather than speeches. This year’s tribute is expected to feature icons such as Diane Keaton, Val Kilmer, Robert Duvall, Catherine O’Hara, Meg Ryan, Billy Crystal, Barbra Streisand, and others who honored their colleagues with heartfelt moments.

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