The 2026 Oscars air tonight on ABC and stream on Hulu for the first time. Hosted by Conan O’Brien for the second year, here’s how to catch every moment of the 98th Academy Awards.
As Hollywood’s finest prepare for the 98th Academy Awards tonight, the ceremony introduces a game-changing streaming option: Hulu. For the first time, viewers can stream the entire Oscars live on Hulu, alongside the traditional broadcast on ABC. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, who returns for a second stint, this year’s show promises to blend comedy and cinema in Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.
Whether you’re tuning in for the star-studded red carpet, the award presentations, or the potential surprises, knowing how and when to watch is key. This guide breaks down everything from broadcast details to the nominated films, ensuring you don’t miss a second.
Why This Year’s Oscars Are Pioneering
The return of Conan O’Brien as host for the second consecutive year brings a familiar comedic touch to the ceremony, a detail confirmed by Good Morning America. His involvement suggests a focused effort to boost viewer engagement with sharp wit and celebrity interactions.
More significantly, the availability of the Oscars on Hulu for the first time marks a major shift in how award shows are distributed, as documented by Good Morning America. This move caters to the growing number of streaming-only households and could set a precedent for future ceremonies. The traditional broadcast remains free over-the-air on local ABC stations, ensuring accessibility for all viewers.
How to Watch: TV and Streaming Options
To watch the ceremony, you have two primary options:
- Over-the-air on ABC: Tune into your local ABC station for free with an antenna. This is the classic way to experience the Oscars with no subscription required.
- Stream on Hulu: For the first time, the entire ceremony will be available live on Hulu. A Hulu subscription is necessary, but this option allows for flexible viewing on various devices, from smart TVs to mobile phones.
These choices reflect a dual-strategy to maximize audience reach, blending traditional and modern viewing habits.
Full Schedule: When to Tune In
The ceremony commences at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on March 15, 2026. But the Oscars experience begins earlier with red carpet coverage.
The pre-show, “On the Red Carpet at the Oscars,” starts at 3:30 PM ET on ABC and streams on ABC News Live. Hosted by Linsey Davis, Whit Johnson, Lara Spencer, Chris Connelly, and more, this coverage captures the fashion, interviews, and arrivals leading up to the main event.
For real-time updates throughout the night, follow GoodMorningAmerica.com and ABCNews.com, as noted in the official guide.
Nominated Films and What to Expect
This year’s ceremony celebrates films from the past year, with highlights including “Hamnet,” “Marty Supreme,” “Sinners”, and others. The official list of nominations, detailed by Good Morning America, showcases a diverse array of cinematic achievements across categories.
While specific nominees for each category aren’t listed here, the Best Picture contenders are a key focus, with opportunities to watch these films prior to the event, as suggested by available guides.
Conclusion: A Night of Firsts and Familiar Favorites
The 2026 Oscars blend tradition with innovation—from Conan O’Brien’s seasoned hosting to the groundbreaking Hulu stream. Whether you’re a film buff or a casual viewer, the multiple access points ensure everyone can participate in Hollywood’s biggest night.
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