Before the long and contentious awards season ends, the 2025 Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 2, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
Of course, expectations are high for the upcoming 97th Academy Awards, which promise to be one of the most exciting and unpredictable in recent memory.
With major stars competing for the industry’s most prestigious honors, here’s everything you need to know about Hollywood’s biggest night.
Who Will Be the Host of the 97th Academy Awards?
After Jimmy Kimmel hosted the 2024 Oscars, another talk show host will take the reins for the 2025 ceremony.
For the first time, comedian and former late-night TV host Conan O’Brien will serve as emcee.
Known for his sharp wit and impeccable comedic timing, O’Brien is expected to bring plenty of humor and energy to the event—along with the possibility of some controversy.
Reports suggest he has sought advice from past Oscars hosts, including Billy Crystal and Kimmel himself, to prepare for the role.
“There’s no such thing as getting to a point professionally where there are no nerves if you’re working in comedy,” he told People. “I am very aware that it’s an iconic show and can be tricky. ... I like to meet a challenge.”
Oscars 2025: Who are the Performers?
The Oscars would never be complete without live performances. However, unlike in previous years, this year’s telecast will not feature performances of all the nominees for Best Original Song.
Instead, Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will perform some songs from their musical movie.
BLACKPINK’s Lisa (The White Lotus), Doja Cat, Queen Latifah, and Raye will also take the stage to honor “the filmmaking community and some of its legends.”
Additionally, the Los Angeles Master Chorale will make a special appearance.
Who are the Presenters at the Oscars 2025?
As expected, the 2025 Oscars will feature a star-studded lineup of presenters, including Harrison Ford, Samuel L. Jackson, Willem Dafoe, Goldie Hawn, Ben Stiller, and Oprah Winfrey.
The list also includes major names such as Robert Downey Jr., Halle Berry, Penélope Cruz, Whoopi Goldberg, Dave Bautista, Scarlett Johansson, Gal Gadot, Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone, and Zoë Saldaña.
Additionally, previously announced presenters include Margaret Qualley, Alba Rohrwacher, Joe Alwyn, Sterling K. Brown, Ana de Armas, Lily-Rose Depp, Selena Gomez, Connie Nielsen, Elle Fanning, John Lithgow, Cillian Murphy, Amy Poehler, Da’Vine Joy Randolph, June Squibb, and Bowen Yang.
Parks & Recreation star Nick Offerman will serve as the announcer this year.
97th Academy Awards Nominees & Predictions
This year’s Oscars is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in recent memory, with no clear frontrunner. However, several names are emerging as favorites in key categories.
- Best Picture: Sean Baker’s Anora, a romantic drama about a sex worker navigating love and fantasy, is generating significant buzz. However, Conclave, a film about Vatican politics, has strong momentum following its SAG Awards win, making it a serious contender.
- Best Actor: The race is tight between Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown) and Adrien Brody (The Brutalist). While Brody secured wins at the BAFTAs and Golden Globes, Chalamet surprised many by taking home the SAG Award, making the category unpredictable.
- Best Actress: Demi Moore’s transformative performance in the horror satire The Substance has made her the frontrunner following her Golden Globe win. However, Mikey Madison’s standout performance in Anora keeps the competition fierce, leaving many torn between the two.
Other notable nominees are Wicked, Emilia Pérez, and The Brutalist, each of which has multiple nominations across categories.
Broadcast and Streaming Details
Oscars 2025 will air live on ABC when the ceremony begins at 4 p.m. PT / 7 p.m. ET on Sunday, March 2.
Viewers can stream it for the first time live on standard Hulu with a basic subscription. Other streaming options include:
- ABC.com or the ABC app (with cable credentials)
- Hulu + Live TV
- YouTube TV
- FuboTV
Red Carpet Coverage and After Party
Of course, before the main event, many fans are eagerly anticipating their favorite stars’ stunning looks on the red carpet.
The glitz and glamour will kick off early with extensive red carpet coverage, ensuring every dazzling moment is captured.
- E! Countdown to the Red Carpet starts at 11 a.m. PT.
- ABC’s official preshow, The Oscars Red Carpet Show, kicks off at 3:30 p.m. PT.
- E!’s Live From the Red Carpet will feature interviews with nominees and fashion commentary by designer Christian Siriano
After the event, E! will host its annual Oscars After Party at 10:30 p.m. ET, covering the stars attending exclusive gatherings such as the Governors Ball and Vanity Fair's after-party.
Despite delays caused by the Los Angeles wildfires, the 2025 Oscars will finally take place, promising an evening filled with surprises, emotional speeches, and unforgettable moments. So, mark your calendars for Tinseltown’s most celebrated event!