The 98th Academy Awards will make history by presenting the first-ever competitive award for Achievement in Casting. This new category, the first since 2001, reflects the Academy’s ongoing effort to recognize the diverse roles involved in filmmaking. Host Conan O’Brien will guide the audience through a night that celebrates modern hits like Sinners and One Battle After Another.
Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor has seen the Oscars from every angle, which has helped her craft a vision for a more intimate ceremony. She notes that the 2026 production design has gone a “step further” this year, offering a warmer feel that is a departure from previous years. Taylor’s focus is on making the broadcast dynamic, emotionally connecting, and respectful of the industry.
One of the most emotional moments of the night will be the In Memoriam segment, honoring beloved figures like James Van Der Beek and Claudia Cardinale. Academy CEO Bill Kramer has promised a “robust and beautiful” tribute, with rumors of special reunions adding to the anticipation. The segment is a key part of the show’s mission to honor those who have contributed to the craft of film.
Ratings for the Oscars have been ticking up, reaching 19.7 million viewers in 2025, with a significant “lift” among younger viewers. The Academy’s efforts to work with popular internet personalities and stream the show on Hulu have paid off. This demographic shift is essential for the long-term success of the awards show in an increasingly digital world.
Looking ahead to the 100th anniversary in 2028, the Academy is already planning a major shift to YouTube in 2029. This transition will turn the Oscars into a year-round digital hub for cinema, offering everything from museum programs to digitized collections. The move is designed to expand the Academy’s reach and impact on a truly global scale.
The 98th Oscars: A Landmark Year for Casting and Cinema
