The 98th Oscars: Creating an Intimate Farewell to Legends

The 98th Academy Awards will feature a fresh aesthetic, with organizers promising a “departure” in production design that emphasizes warmth and intimacy. This new direction is intended to make the massive event feel more personal, reflecting the “brave” nature of this year’s top films. Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the ceremony will celebrate a year of cinema that Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor calls “spectacular.”
Lynette Howell Taylor’s journey to the presidency has been a natural transition, having served as a producer, nominee, and awards chair. she notes that the 2026 show will have a unique “feel” that is intimate and warm, a departure from previous broadcasts. Taylor’s focus is on making the broadcast dynamic, emotionally connecting, and respectful of the industry professionals being honored.
The In Memoriam tribute will be a particularly poignant part of the 98th ceremony, honoring legends like Robert Redford, Diane Keaton, and Rob Reiner. Bill Kramer, the Academy CEO, has promised a segment that is “robust and beautiful,” providing a moving experience for everyone watching. Rumors of surprise reunions have only added to the anticipation for the live broadcast on March 15.
Ratings for the Oscars have shown a positive trend, hitting 19.7 million viewers in 2025, with a significant lift among younger audiences. By making the show available to stream on Hulu and partnering with digital creators, the Academy has found new ways to engage viewers. This shift toward mobile and laptop watches is a key part of the organization’s long-term strategy for growth.
Beyond the immediate ceremony, the Academy is preparing for a landmark shift to YouTube in 2029. This transition will create a year-round digital hub for cinema, including access to museum programming and digitized historical archives. The 98th Oscars are a key part of this evolution, setting the stage for a new era of digital distribution and engagement.