Oscar Luncheon Shocker: Did a Major Star Just Drop Out of the Race? You Won't Believe Who!

The atmosphere at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on Tuesday was electric as 203 of this year’s 230 Academy Award nominees gathered for the annual nominees luncheon, a cherished tradition that offers a moment of camaraderie amid the competitive frenzy of awards season. Amid the clinking of glasses and the buzz of excitement, stars like Jacob Elordi, towering at 6 feet 5 inches, embraced fellow nominees such as Teyana Taylor, who is nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in “One Battle After Another.” Meanwhile, Leonardo DiCaprio reconnected with director Steven Spielberg, reminiscing about their work together in “Catch Me If You Can” two decades ago.

This year marks a notable return for the luncheon, having been canceled in 2025 due to the devastating Los Angeles County wildfires. As the Oscars approach on March 15, this gathering serves as a welcome respite from the intense campaigning and pressures that define the lead-up to the big night. The attendees, from acclaimed stars like Timothée Chalamet and Emma Stone to nominees in lesser-known categories like animation and sound, raised their champagne glasses in celebration of their shared journeys in filmmaking.

For many, this luncheon is not just a social affair but a significant milestone. First-time nominee Christalyn Hampton, co-director of the documentary short “The Devil Is Busy,” expressed her excitement about meeting Ryan Coogler, director of “Sinners,” which leads the nominations with a record 16 nods. “We’re two African American directors nominated this year — I think that’s pretty historic,” said Hampton, whose first directing credit has catapulted her into the spotlight. “It’s been exhausting flying back and forth from Atlanta, but to be in this moment with all these incredible filmmakers — you can’t complain.”

While the atmosphere was celebratory, the looming realities of the film industry hung heavy in the air. As nominees enjoyed their chicken entrees, conversations turned to industry challenges, including speculation over potential mergers and acquisitions involving major players like Netflix and Paramount, and what that could mean for the future of cinema.

Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor addressed these uncertainties during her remarks, acknowledging the questions many nominees face in light of ongoing industry contractions and global conflicts. “The art you create is vital,” Howell Taylor reminded the crowd. “I know many of us ask ourselves, ‘Should we be doing something else? Should we be doing something differently? Should we be doing more?’ The answer to that is personal. But what I do know is this: What you are doing is not easy and it is so needed.”

The sentiment resonated especially with nominees from regions facing turmoil. Sara Khaki, co-director of “Cutting Through Rocks,” a documentary feature showcasing the first Iranian woman elected as a councilwoman, shared the emotional weight of the moment. “It’s been terrible and wonderful,” Khaki reflected, referencing the protests against the Iranian government that have shaken her home country. “What’s terrible is what we’re experiencing back home — the internet shut down, worrying about our loved ones. What’s wonderful is what’s happening here.”

The poignant contrast between the celebratory atmosphere and the harsh realities outside the ballroom was palpable. As nominees participated in a reflective exercise, filling out cards answering the question, “What movie made you want to be part of this world?” Chloé Zhao, nominated for directing “Hamnet,” cited Hirokazu Kore-eda’s “After Life,” a film that deeply aligns with her own artistic sensibilities. The responses would be woven into the Oscar telecast, creating a moment of connection between the nominees and viewers.

In addition to the shared experiences and aspirations, the luncheon served as a platform for some gentle coaching on how to navigate Oscar night. Guidelines included keeping speeches brief and moving swiftly to the stage, a reminder that the moment is not just theirs but also for the audience watching from home. “You are the show,” Howell Taylor emphasized, reminding nominees of the entertainment aspect of the event.

Ultimately, the luncheon was more than just a prelude to the Oscars; it was a celebration of resilience, creativity, and community within the film industry. As the nominees prepare for the upcoming awards ceremony, they carry with them not only their personal dreams and achievements but also the collective hopes of an industry navigating tumultuous waters.