The Academy has turned to the wit and experience of Conan O’Brien to host the 98th annual Oscars, signaling a focus on reliable entertainment. As the show prepares to honor the best of the year, O’Brien’s presence is seen as a way to anchor the high-energy production. Organizers are looking to build on the success of the previous two years, which saw a steady climb in both domestic and international viewership.
Lynette Howell Taylor, the Academy’s first-year president, views the upcoming show as a culmination of her various roles within the organization. She emphasizes that the 98th ceremony will have a unique “feel” dictated by the specific movies in contention. According to Taylor, the goal is to honor the artists in the room while providing a seamless experience for those watching at home.
The 98th Oscars will pay a heavy tribute to a generation of stars who passed away recently, including Malcolm-Jamal Warner and James Van Der Beek. The “In Memoriam” section is being described as “robust,” with a focus on emotional resonance. To ensure no one is forgotten, an extended version of the tribute will be hosted on the Academy’s digital platforms following the broadcast.
Younger viewers are watching the Oscars in record numbers on laptops and mobile devices, a trend the Academy is eager to foster. The availability of the live stream on Hulu has been a game-changer for accessibility and audience growth. By meeting viewers where they are, the Academy is successfully navigating the transition away from traditional “appointment” television viewing.
The long-term strategy for the Academy involves a total pivot to digital distribution via YouTube by 2029. This move is designed to expand the brand’s reach and provide a platform for ancillary events like the SciTech Awards and museum programming. The partnership with Google will also allow for the public to engage with the Academy’s historic collection through interactive digital galleries.