Television veteran Conan O’Brien is set to host the 98th Academy Awards, a night that promises to be both emotionally moving and visually spectacular. Academy leaders are focused on delivering a show that honors the best of the year while introducing a historic new category for casting. The ceremony will also feature a robust In Memoriam segment, paying tribute to many beloved film icons.
President Lynette Howell Taylor’s experience as a producer and nominee has shaped her vision for a more intimate 2026 show. She believes that the quality of this year’s movies—which she describes as “brave and bold”—will make for a dynamic and connecting broadcast. Taylor’s collaboration with CEO Bill Kramer has ensured that the show stays within its three-and-a-half-hour target.
One of the most anticipated moments is the In Memoriam segment, which will honor legends like Robert Redford and Diane Keaton. Bill Kramer has stated that the tribute will be “robust and very, very moving,” providing a fitting farewell to those who shaped the industry. A more comprehensive list will also be available on the Academy’s digital platforms after the show.
The Academy’s ratings have shown a steady recovery, reaching 19.7 million viewers in 2025, driven by a surge in engagement from younger audiences. By making the show available live on Hulu and partnering with internet personalities, the Oscars have found new life. This demographic shift is essential for the long-term success of the broadcast in a changing media landscape.
The move to YouTube in 2029 marks a significant shift in the Academy’s global strategy, aiming to reach more audiences around the world. This transition will create a year-round digital hub for cinema, including access to museum programming and digitized historical archives. The 98th Oscars are an important step in this journey, setting the stage for a new era of global engagement.