You Won’t Believe Who Wore WHAT at the 2026 Academy Awards – Shocking Fashion Fails Revealed!

The countdown to Hollywood's most prestigious night is nearly over, as the 98th Academy Awards are set to kick off at 7 p.m. Eastern/4 p.m. Pacific this Sunday at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Comedian Conan O’Brien returns as host for the second year, promising a night filled with laughter and celebration of cinematic excellence.

This year's Oscars race was initially believed to be dominated by “One Battle After Another”, but recent momentum has shifted the spotlight toward “Sinners”, which has made surprise gains in several late-season awards. Other strong contenders include films like “Sentimental Value,” “Marty Supreme,” “Frankenstein,” and “Hamnet.”

As guests arrive at the Dolby Theatre, they are welcomed by a picture-perfect sunny afternoon, setting the stage for a glamorous event. This year's red carpet features a Japan-inspired design, complete with Japanese maple trees lining the walkway and wood slat panels adding texture to the venue. The carpet itself, described as “red rock,” boasts earthy brown shades, giving it a fresh take compared to the traditional bright red.

However, it's not just the carpet that's heating up; the weather is sweltering. Production staff experienced two days of intense heat during rehearsals and are bracing for a crowded and sweaty carpet as the stars arrive.

Among the filmmakers making headlines is Ryan Coogler, who is in the running for the coveted Best Director award. If successful, he would make history as the first Black filmmaker to receive this honor in the Academy's nearly century-long legacy. Despite the potential significance of the moment, Coogler remains focused on enjoying the event with his “Sinners” collaborators. “I’m just trying to enjoy the days as they come, stay present in the moment,” he told The Associated Press.

In a poignant twist, Jafar Panahi, the Iranian filmmaker whose film “It Was Just an Accident” was inspired by his time as a political prisoner, plans to return home despite facing a year-long prison sentence and a two-year travel ban. “I know where I live and under what government,” Panahi stated. “I also know that such works of art come with a price that I have to pay.”

This year’s ceremony is also marked by a wave of activism, with several stars donning “ICE OUT” and “BE GOOD” pins, drawing inspiration from AIDS activists of the 1980s and 90s. Maremoto Executive Director Jess Morales Rocketto explained that they aim to make a statement in an environment that often prioritizes commercial interests. “It is supposed to intervene in a place that would otherwise be 100% about the commerce of brand deals and movie promotions,” she noted.

Performances are a highlight of the Oscars, and this year promises a variety of acts. The fictional girl group HUNTR/X will take the stage with their hit “Golden” from the animated film “KPop Demon Hunters.” Additionally, Miles Caton and Raphael Saadiq will perform their Oscar-nominated song “I Lied To You” from “Sinners,” featuring an array of talented musicians, including Misty Copeland and Brittany Howard.

With a record-breaking 16 nominations, “Sinners” is already making history at the Oscars. This surpassed the previous record held by films like “Titanic” and “La La Land,” both of which had 14 nominations. While high expectations surround “Sinners,” it’s worth noting that multiple films with numerous nominations, such as “The Turning Point” and “The Color Purple,” went home empty-handed despite their acclaimed status.

As the ceremony approaches, Lynette Howell Taylor, the president of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, reflects on the unique nature of each Oscars. “Every year is different,” Taylor stated, emphasizing the challenge of honoring the nominees while providing an entertaining show for viewers at home. With O’Brien leading the event, Taylor believes it will be an unforgettable evening.

O’Brien's return was celebrated by the Academy, with showrunner Raj Kapoor noting O’Brien’s dedication to making the event a true celebration of cinema. “His humor, his tone, his reverence to the art form? He really cares about making this a true celebration,” said executive producer Katy Mullan.

As the clock ticks down to the Oscars, audiences are left anticipating a night of glamour, history, and activism, reminding us that the Academy Awards are not just about the films, but also about the stories that resonate beyond the screen.