The 98th Academy Awards are focusing on the power of choice—specifically, the choices made by casting directors. For the first time, the Academy will present a competitive award for Achievement in Casting, honoring the professionals who discovered the stars of films like Sinners. This new award is a long-overdue recognition of one of the most essential disciplines in the filmmaking process.
President Lynette Howell Taylor has described the inclusion of the Casting award as a “gorgeous moment” for the industry. Having seen the process from the perspective of a producer, she knows how a single casting decision can change the trajectory of a film. The 98th Oscars will give these professionals their first opportunity to be recognized on Hollywood’s biggest stage.
Conan O’Brien’s return as host brings a sense of continuity to a show that is otherwise embracing major changes. O’Brien’s comedic timing and ease with a live audience are expected to keep the show moving during its three-and-a-half-hour runtime. His presence is a key factor in the Academy’s recent ratings success, which saw nearly 20 million viewers in 2025.
The 2026 “In Memoriam” will be an emotional high point, honoring stars like Catherine O’Hara, Robert Duvall, and Val Kilmer. Organizers are preparing a robust segment that honors the diversity and history of the film community. A longer version of the tribute will be available online to ensure that every industry professional who passed away this year is honored.
The Academy’s 2029 move to YouTube is part of a plan to turn the organization into a year-round “hub for cinema.” This partnership with Google will allow for the digitization of the Academy’s archives and the global broadcast of events like the SciTech Awards. This transition marks the beginning of a new era for the Oscars as a truly global and digital-first brand.