The 98th Academy Awards are set to take place on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, offering a night poised to celebrate outstanding achievements in film over the past year. Among the highlights of the ceremony will be two remarkable performances that honour significant cinematic works, echoing the cultural impact they have had on audiences.
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One of the central features of this year’s Oscars will be a tribute to “KPop Demon Hunters,” Netflix’s most-watched film to date. The performance will showcase a blend of traditional Korean music and vibrant dance, culminating in a live rendition of the film’s notable track, “Golden.” This unique homage underscores the film’s blend of cultural elements, highlighted by the participation of the animated feature’s musical group HUNTR/X, featuring artists Ejae, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami.
The significance of “KPop Demon Hunters” cannot be overstated, as it has captivated viewers across the globe, earning praise for its inventive storytelling and musical score. Oscars executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullana labelled the film a “global pop culture sensation,” describing the performance as an expanded cinematic tribute woven into the essence of storytelling and music that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Equally deserving of celebration is “Sinners,” which stands as the most nominated film in Oscar history, racking up an impressive 16 nominations. This exceeds the previous record of 14 held by classics such as “All About Eve,” “Titanic,” and “La La Land.” The horror-action feature will receive its tribute through a performance of “I Lied to You,” by Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq, both of whom were integral to the film’s musical composition.
This year’s Oscars will include special appearances from noted talents, adding to the production’s buzz. Notable collaborators Caton and Saadiq will take to the stage alongside American ballet icon Misty Copeland and rising rapper Shaboozey. Their performance promises to be a rich tribute to the film’s impactful visual style and narrative depth.
In addition to these performances, renowned musicians including Eric Gales, Buddy Guy, Brittany Howard, Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, and Alice Smith will accompany the acts, reflecting the show’s commitment to showcasing exceptional artistry. Kapoor and Mullana emphasised that these performances transcend mere entertainment, instead creating a narrative that intertwines the artistry of music with the power of film.
The event will also feature appearances from Josh Groban and the Los Angeles Master Chorale, enriching the Oscars’ musical showcase. Additional acts are anticipated to be announced as the ceremony approaches, promising an unforgettable night for cinema lovers.
Conan O’Brien has been confirmed as the host for the 98th Oscars, bringing his unique flair and comedic insight to the prestigious event. The ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC and streamed via Hulu, extending its reach to audiences across more than 200 territories globally.
As the countdown to the 98th Academy Awards approaches, excitement is building for an evening filled with celebration, reflection, and anticipation of the cinematic achievements that have defined the past year. With performances crafted to honour significant films and their profound impact, this year’s ceremony is set to be a memorable highlight in the film industry calendar.