The room goes quiet as the orchestra swells and someone leans forward with a whisper: did you catch last year’s shocker, Sinners? I remember watching fans argue over which film would sweep the night while I scribbled notes and timed the live feeds. You don’t want to miss this year — so let me show you exactly how to tune in.
I’ve tracked live broadcasts and streaming rights for years, and I’ll walk you through where to watch, when to log on, and which services matter. Read this once and you’ll know whether to set an antenna, open Hulu, or queue ITVX — with no fuss.
When and Where Is Oscars 2026 Happening?
The red carpet fills with flashes and last-minute fittings long before the ceremony starts. Oscars 2026 takes place at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles, California, on Sunday, March 15, 2026, honoring the best films of 2025. Expect surprises — horror’s Sinners scored big across major categories — and several underdogs could walk away with trophies.
When, Where and How to Watch Oscars 2026 Live
Your living room may well become mission control for the evening. In the U.S. the ceremony airs live on ABC and streams on Hulu; ABC is available over-the-air for free, while Hulu offers streaming plans starting at $7.99 (€8) per month. The broadcast is a lighthouse of live television, so choose the path that matches your gear: smart TV apps (Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV), the network’s website, or the Hulu app on mobile.
International viewers: ITV1 and ITVX will carry the show in the UK; Star Movies covers several territories; in India check JioCinema/Hotstar listings. Rights change by market, so verify local listings a day or two before the event.
How to watch the 2026 Oscars for free?
If you’re in the U.S., tune an antenna to your local ABC affiliate and watch at no cost. In the UK, ITV1/ITVX streams the show without a fee. Some streaming services offer free trials, but those windows vary — check terms before you sign up.
Can you stream the Oscars on Netflix?
No. The Academy Awards air on ABC and stream on Hulu; Netflix won’t carry the live ceremony.
How to watch the Oscars outside the US?
Search for your national broadcaster: ITVX (UK), Star Movies (select regions), and JioCinema/Hotstar (India) are the main platforms mentioned so far. If you travel, consult local TV guides or the Academy’s international partners page — regional feeds are common and sometimes include local-language coverage.
Oscars 2026 Release Time: Days Until Oscar
Phones ping with calendar reminders as the clock heads toward showtime. The 98th Academy Awards begin at 7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT on Sunday, March 15, 2026. The red carpet pre-show usually starts around 6:30 p.m. ET (3:30 p.m. PT).
- Brazil: 9:00 PM BRT (March 15)
- UK: 12:00 AM GMT (March 16)
- UAE: 4:00 AM GST (March 16)
- India: 4:30 AM IST (March 16)
- Australia: 11:00 AM AEST (March 16)
Who Will Host the 98th Academy Awards?
A hush falls and someone cracks a joke — that sets the room’s tone. Conan O’Brien is returning as host for Oscars 2026. Conan is a seasoned ringmaster of late-night stages, and he brings decades of live-audience experience and sharp comedy timing. He’s spoken about preparing for the night in interviews (see his recent interview), and his presence suggests a ceremony with steady pacing and smart humor.
Expect an evening that balances big moments with lighter beats. Will the show favor surprising winners or safe choices — and how will Conan steer the conversation?
Ready to pick your seat, press play, or adjust that antenna — and whose win would spark the hottest debate in your group?