The 97th Academy Awards are set to dazzle audiences worldwide on March 2, 2025, celebrating the pinnacle of cinematic achievements from the past year. Whether you’re a seasoned Oscars enthusiast or tuning in for the first time, here’s everything you need to know to fully immerse yourself in Hollywood’s biggest night.
How to Watch the Oscars 2025
For the first time in Oscars history, viewers have more flexibility than ever to catch the live broadcast:
- Broadcast Television: The ceremony will air live on ABC, starting at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT.
- Streaming Options:
- Hulu: In a groundbreaking move, Hulu will stream the Oscars live. Subscribers to both the standard Hulu plan and Hulu + Live TV can access the ceremony without additional costs.
- Other Platforms: Services like DIRECTV STREAM, Fubo, and Sling TV also offer live access to ABC, ensuring you won’t miss a moment.
- International Viewers: The Oscars will be broadcast in over 200 territories worldwide.
What to Expect: Highlights of the Night
- Host: Comedian and television host Conan O’Brien will take center stage, marking his inaugural stint as Oscars host. Known for his sharp wit and charismatic presence, O’Brien is poised to bring a fresh energy to the ceremony.
- Performances: According to NPR, while the ceremony has opted out of Best Original Song performances this year, attendees and viewers can look forward to a special medley from the musical film Wicked, performed by its stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.
- Presenters: A star-studded lineup of presenters includes previous Oscar winners and nominees such as Emma Stone, Cillian Murphy, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, and Robert Downey Jr., among others.
Top Contenders and Predictions
The competition is fierce this year, with several films and performances standing out:
- Emilia Pérez: Leading with 13 nominations, this film has captured the attention of critics and audiences alike.
- The Brutalist: With ten nominations, including Best Picture and Best Director, it’s a formidable contender.
- Wicked: This adaptation of the beloved musical has garnered ten nominations, showcasing its widespread acclaim.
- The Brutalist: Adrien Brody is a leading contender for Best Actor for his powerful performance.
- The Substance: Demi Moore has generated significant buzz as a strong contender for Best Actress.
Noteworthy Moments to Anticipate
- Historic Nominations: Karla Sofía Gascón’s nomination for Emilia Pérez marks a significant moment, as she becomes the first openly transgender performer to be nominated in an acting category, as noted by the BBC.
- Tributes: The ceremony will feature a special homage to the James Bond franchise, honoring longtime producers Barbara Broccoli and Michael G. Wilson with the Irving G. Thalberg Memorial Award.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Oscars promise an evening of glamour, recognition, and memorable moments. With accessible viewing options and a lineup filled with talent and anticipation, it’s an event you won’t want to miss. So, mark your calendars, set your reminders, and prepare to be captivated by the magic of cinema.
