The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. In the final hours before the show, awards pundits, including Scott Feinberg of The Hollywood Reporter, have consolidated their predictions for the winners in major categories.
According to aggregated forecasts from sources like Gold Derby, several races appear highly competitive. The Best Picture category is seen as a close contest between a handful of critically acclaimed films from the eligible 2025 release period. Similarly, tight races are anticipated in the lead acting and directing categories.
The predictions are based on precursor awards results, industry sentiment, and historical voting patterns of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. The official nominees were announced on January 23, 2026.
The live broadcast will air on ABC in the United States. The ceremony marks the culmination of the 2025-2026 film awards season, following events like the Golden Globes, Critics' Choice Awards, and guild ceremonies.
