The Academy Awards
The 98th Academy Awards aired on Mar. 15, marking the official end of the 2026 award season. The Oscars is Hollywood’s biggest night of the year.
From red carpets, to outfits, to awards — everything matters. It’s the night when filmmakers, actors, actresses, and more come together to celebrate the arts and their peers greatest accomplishments.
The night is historical. Marking a lot of first and record breaking achievements. This night turns nominees into winners for anyone who clutches the award, and winners into legends whose legacy now includes the Oscar trophy.
Conan O’Brien hosted the ceremony using humorous skits and jokes to keep the crowd engaged, acknowledging big moments in pop culture and politics.
O’Brian began the Oscars with a high-energy cold open where he is chased to the Oscars by the children from “Weapons” dressed as the character Aunt Glady’s from the hit film, interacting with characters, and referencing popular film scenes.
Award Winners
Ryan Coogler’s “Sinners” obtained the most nominations in Oscar history with a total of 16. A highly anticipated win of Michael B. Jordan’s outstanding performance of twins in the blockbuster film.
“Sinners” became the highest-grossing original live-action film in 15 years, grossing over $300 million worldwide with massive attention in the media, which resulted in 4 Oscar winners including Michael B. Jordan (Best Actor), Autumn Durald Arkapaw (Best Cinematography), Ryan Coogler (Best Original Screenplay), and Ludwig Göransson (Best Original Score)
Autumn Durald Arkapaw also made history becoming the first woman to win for Best Cinematography. Coogler became only the second African American man to win in his category, and Jordan the sixth African American man to win Best Actor.
Arkpaw gave a beautiful speech sending an empowering message to girls, and young women all over the world.
“I wanted it for all the girls at home,” said Arkpaw.
Jordan acknowledged and thanked the winners who opened the doors for him.
“I stand here because of the people that came before me,” said Jordan.
Coogler dedicated his historical win to his children, who he mentioned as a huge influence
“Memories are all we have. I hope I gave you some great ones,” said Coogler.
Each received an abundance of cheer and a standing ovation.
A Great Night
The ceremony marked plenty of other achievements. “One Battle After Another” took home the mini gold for Best Picture. Paul Thomas Anderson, director of “One Battle After Another” won Best Director. Sean Penn also won Best Supporting Actor, but he was not in attendance to receive his award with a speech.
Anderson also won for Best Adapted Screen Play. Making him a 3 time winner– in the same night following 14 previous nominations.
Jessie Buckly won Best Actress for “Hamnet” and Amy Madigan won Best Supporting Actress for “Weapons,” making them both first time winners, and Buckly making history as the first Irish women to win the award for her category.
Overall, the ceremony exuded great support for one another with cheer, laughter, and applause, and it was a fitting end to an incredible year for film.
