A New Direction for Hollywood: Previewing the 98th Academy Awards

The 98th Academy Awards are set to debut a new production style that emphasizes intimacy and emotional connection. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the ceremony will celebrate the best of the year’s cinema while introducing the long-awaited Achievement in Casting award. Academy leaders are confident that this year’s “spectacular” show will build on the success of recent years and reach a truly global audience.
Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor has a unique perspective on the Oscars, having served as a nominee, producer, and board governor. She notes that the 2026 show will be unique because of the specific movies in contention, which she describes as “all the things.” Her goal is to create a show that honors the craft of filmmaking while providing an entertaining experience for home viewers.
One of the most anticipated moments is the In Memoriam segment, which will pay tribute to several legends who passed away this year. Icons like Robert Redford, Diane Keaton, and Rob Reiner will be honored in a sequence described as “robust and beautiful.” Producers are focused on making the tribute a moving highlight of the night, with rumors of special guest appearances swirling.
The Academy’s ratings have been on the rise since 2021, reaching 19.7 million viewers in 2025, with a significant lift among younger demographics. This growth is driven by the availability of the show on streaming platforms like Hulu and its engagement with digital influencers. By embracing modern viewing habits, the Oscars are successfully expanding their reach and impact.
The move to YouTube in 2029 marks a major shift in the Academy’s strategy to become a more global organization. This transition will create a year-round digital hub for cinema, offering access to everything from the SciTech Awards to museum content. The 98th Oscars are a key part of this evolution, setting the stage for a new era of digital distribution and engagement.