The 98th Academy Awards are approaching with a renewed sense of energy and a commitment to reaching a broader, more digital audience. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the ceremony will highlight the year’s top cinematic achievements while debuting a brand-new award for Casting. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor are confident that this year’s “spectacular” show will continue the ratings recovery seen in recent years.
Lynette Howell Taylor’s diverse background as a producer and nominee has given her a unique vantage point on the “puzzle” of the Oscars. She describes this year’s films as having a quality that makes her emotional, ranging from escapist blockbusters to brave, independent stories. Her goal is to ensure the 98th ceremony feels intimate and warm, a departure from the grandiosity of previous broadcasts.
A major addition to the 2026 show is the spotlight on the Casting award, recognizing the vital work of identifying talent for films like One Battle After Another. Producers are striving to keep the entire ceremony under three and a half hours, even with the new segment and a moving “In Memoriam” tribute. This efficiency is key to maintaining viewer engagement in a fast-paced media environment.
The Academy’s decision to stream the Oscars live on Hulu and partner with internet personalities has paid off with younger viewers. Ratings grew to 19.7 million in 2025, with mobile and laptop watches driving a significant portion of the growth. This trend toward digital consumption is a cornerstone of the Academy’s plan to remain relevant in a changing cultural landscape.
The move to YouTube in 2029 marks the next phase of the Academy’s global mission, transforming the Oscars into a digital hub for film history and museum programming. By partnering with Google Arts and Culture, the organization will make its vast collection available to the public worldwide. This long-term strategy is designed to build a year-round connection with film fans across the globe.
The 98th Oscars: A Brighter Future Through Digital Evolution
