Top Moments from the 2026 Oscars, From Conan to 'Sinners'
A Night of Triumphs, Tensions, and Unforgettable Moments at the 2026 Oscars
The 98th Academy Awards were a rollercoaster of emotions, with moments that left the audience in awe, laughter, and even a few awkward silences. From historic wins to unexpected reunions, the ceremony was a blend of celebration and reflection.
Conan O’Brien’s Overbearing Presence
Oscar host Conan O’Brien made his mark, but not always in a positive way. His monologue was polite and occasionally amusing, but it felt overly long and repetitive. The opening montage and monologue stretched for nearly 20 minutes, and his bits between categories leaned on tired stereotypes and cheap punchlines. Whenever he appeared, it often felt like filler compared to the genuine, emotional moments of the night.
Amy Madigan’s Surprising Win
Veteran actress Amy Madigan stole the spotlight as she won best supporting actress for her role in “Weapons.” Her acceptance speech was heartfelt, reflecting on the 40 years since her first nomination. “Everyone in the press has been asking me: ‘It’s been 40 years. What’s different?’ What’s different is I’ve got this little gold guy!” she said, bringing smiles to the audience.
“Sinners” Shines with a Moving Performance
The performance of “I Lied to You” by Miles Caton and his ensemble was a highlight of the night. With a lineup of talented musicians and performers, the act captured the essence of the Oscar-nominated film. It was electrifying and moving, proving that great cinema can leave a lasting impression.
A Nostalgic Tribute to “The Devil Wears Prada”
Anne Hathaway and Anna Wintour made a nostalgic appearance, referencing the upcoming sequel to “The Devil Wears Prada.” Their presentation was filled with humor and nostalgia, reminding the audience of the iconic film that launched Hathaway’s career.
Historic Tie Almost Derailed
The evening saw a historic tie for best live-action short film, with both “The Singers” and “Two People Exchanging Saliva” winning. However, the moment was almost ruined when the production tried to cut off the acceptance speech of the “Saliva” filmmakers. After some awkward moments, the camera returned to the winners, saving the moment from being a disaster.
Ryan Coogler’s Oscar Win
Ryan Coogler, the director of “Sinners,” took home the award for best original screenplay. The win was met with a standing ovation, and Coogler received the award from Marvel stars Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr. It was a joyous moment for the filmmaker and his fans.
A Moving Tribute to Hollywood Legends
The “in memoriam” segment honored those who passed away in the past year, including Rob Reiner, Catherine O’Hara, Robert Redford, and Diane Keaton. The tribute went beyond the usual montage, featuring heartfelt speeches and performances. Barbra Streisand’s emotional rendition of “The Way We Were” was particularly touching.
Iconic Cast Reunions
Several iconic casts reunited on Oscar night. Chris Evans and Robert Downey Jr. returned to the stage in penguin suits, while the cast of “Bridesmaids” delivered a hilarious bit about aging. The night ended with Ewan McGregor and Nicole Kidman performing lines from “Moulin Rouge!” before presenting best picture.
The “Golden” Performance
Fans had to stay up late to catch EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami perform “Golden” from “K-Pop Demon Hunters.” The performance, though brief, was notable for its metallic outfits. However, it lacked the bombast expected from such a chart-topping song.
Paul Thomas Anderson’s Long-Awaited Wins
Paul Thomas Anderson finally received recognition for his work on “One Battle After Another,” winning awards for screenplay and directing. The clearly moved Anderson joked about the academy making him “work hard” for the win.
Michael B. Jordan and Jessie Buckley’s Emotional Speeches
Michael B. Jordan’s win for best actor was met with cheers and applause. His heartfelt speech thanked his family and highlighted the importance of his mother. Soon after, Jessie Buckley won best actress for “Hamnet,” dedicating her win to mothers everywhere.
“One Battle After Another” Takes Best Picture
With three trophies, “One Battle After Another” became the standout film of the night. Director Paul Thomas Anderson joined his cast in celebrating the win, expressing gratitude for the journey and the fellow nominees.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 Oscars were a mix of triumphs, tensions, and unforgettable moments. From historic wins to emotional tributes, the ceremony reminded everyone of the power of cinema and the stories it tells.
