From big-name presenters to special performances, buzz for Oscars 2026 goes beyond nominees
The 98th Academy Awards are this Sunday, and it's not just the nominees who are creating buzz.
From the big-name presenters, to the special performances and the famous after party, what will happen is anyone's guess.
In an awards season that's been anything but predictable, come Sunday, we'll finally know who will walk away an Oscar winner.
Will it be "Sinners" or "One Battle After Another" for best picture?
Who will take best actor? It's been a nail biter of a race.
Then there's the ultra-competitive supporting categories that are still up in the air.
"I cannot overstate this enough, and it's usually a clickbait type of way of saying, any of the five can win," said Variety Chief Awards Editor Clayton Davis. "I mean it with every fiber of my being."
As soon as the winners take those first steps off stage, it's time for the official Oscars after party, the Governor's Ball.
It's where winners get their new statues engraved, then mix, mingle, and enjoy the creations of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck.
"Presenters include Nicole Kidman, Jimmy Kimmel, Pedro Pascal and Channing Tatum, plus last year's winners Adrien Brody, Zoe Saldana, Kieran Culkin and Mikey Madison.
Also gracing the stage will be performances by KPop Demon Hunters, and a star-studded rendition of "I Lied to You" from "Sinners," that includes Miles Canton, Misty Copeland and Shaboozey.
Another win for nominees and viewers alike -- Conan O'Brien is back as host.
Now, all we can do is wait and see who walks away with gold.
