Hollywood is poised for an exhilarating evening as the 98th Academy Awards take center stage on March 12, 2023. The event will unfold at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, where film industry elites anticipate a showdown between acclaimed directors Paul Thomas Anderson and Ryan Coogler for the night’s top honors.
The ceremony kicks off at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT, broadcasting live on ABC and streaming on Hulu. Following the awards, viewers can delve into the glamorous festivities by tuning into “On the Red Carpet: After the Awards,” offering a glimpse into the star-studded celebrations.
Conan O’Brien Hosts Amid Heightened Security
Returning for a second year as host, Conan O’Brien promises an entertaining show, reflecting the style of legendary hosts like Bob Hope and Johnny Carson. In light of recent global events, including the war in Iran, O’Brien stated, “Let’s have fun with it, is my attitude.”
Security will be notably stringent this year. Raj Kapoor, the show’s executive producer, confirmed the collaboration with the FBI and LAPD to ensure safety during the event. “We monitor what’s going on in the world,” Kapoor remarked, highlighting the ongoing efforts to safeguard attendees.
The ceremony will feature live performances of two nominated songs: “I Lied to You” from “Sinners” and “Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters.” This year’s nominees reflect a blend of theatrical and streaming releases, with “KPop Demon Hunters” emerging as the most-watched film of 2025, boasting 325 million views on Netflix.
Significant Changes and Competitive Categories
One notable change this year is the introduction of a best casting category, along with a requirement for Academy members to view all nominees before casting their votes. Voters must attest to having watched each nominee on the Academy’s streaming platform prior to voting in any category.
The competition for the Best Actor award is particularly fierce. While Timothée Chalamet has been seen as a front-runner for his role in “Marty Supreme,” a strong campaign by Jordan has shifted perceptions. In the Best Actress category, Jessie Buckley is expected to make history as the first Irish performer to win, though the supporting categories remain highly competitive.
As the industry grapples with current events, several nominees directly address contemporary issues, including “One Battle After Another,” which opens with a dramatic raid on an immigration facility. Jafar Panahi, nominated for his Iranian film “It Was Just an Accident,” faces unique challenges, including a recent prison sentence and restrictions on his movement.
In memoriam, a tribute segment will honor notable figures including Robert Redford and Diane Keaton, with O’Brien promising a “very powerful” remembrance. The Oscars, which historically reflect societal contexts, will once again be a platform for engaging with pressing global themes.
As the evening unfolds, all eyes will be on the winners and the stories that emerge from this year’s Academy Awards, marking another chapter in Hollywood’s storied history.
