Los Angeles is set to shine once again as the 97th Academy Awards take center stage on Monday, March 3, 2025, at the iconic Dolby Theatre. Despite recent wildfires that devastated parts of the city, the Oscars promise a night of glamour, recognition, and resilience.
When and Where to Watch the Oscars 2025?
The highly anticipated event will begin at 5:30 AM (IST) and will be streamed globally on Jio Hotstar for the first time. Television viewers can tune in on Star Movies and Star Movies Select, with a repeat telecast scheduled for 8:30 PM on the same channels.
For the first time ever, legendary late-night host Conan O’Brien will take on hosting duties for the Academy Awards. Known for his sharp wit and comedic timing, O’Brien is expected to bring humor and energy to the prestigious ceremony.
“I only hosted so that I could be invited,” O’Brien joked in a press conference, adding that he is thrilled to finally experience the Oscars from the stage rather than the audience.
How the Wildfires Have Impacted the Oscars
The tragic wildfires that swept through Los Angeles earlier this year have left an emotional mark on the industry. Many questioned whether the ceremony should proceed in light of the devastation, but the Academy decided to move forward to honor the resilience of Hollywood and its community.
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Executive producer Raj Kapoor emphasized that the show will pay tribute to the city’s enduring spirit. “We wanted to create moments that celebrate this amazing city we live in,” he stated. Viewers will also have opportunities to contribute to wildfire recovery efforts during the broadcast.
Star-Studded Lineup of Presenters
The Oscars 2025 will feature an exciting roster of presenters, including:
Dave Bautista
Harrison Ford
Gal Gadot
Andrew Garfield
Samuel L. Jackson
Margaret Qualley
Alba Rohrwacher
Zoe Saldana
Rachel Zegler
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Returning to present awards will be last year’s acting winners: Emma Stone, Robert Downey Jr., Cillian Murphy, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph. Nick Offerman will serve as the official announcer for the evening.
Musical Highlights: No Best Song Performances, But A Star-Studded Tribute
This year, the Academy has opted to skip live performances of the Best Original Song nominees. However, music will remain a crucial part of the event.
Queen Latifah will lead a special tribute to the late music legend Quincy Jones, who received a Governor’s Award in November before his passing. Other performances will feature Doja Cat, LISA (of Blackpink), RAYE, Cynthia Erivo, and Ariana Grande.
Best Picture Nominees at the Oscars 2025
Ten films are in contention for the coveted Best Picture award:
Anora
The Brutalist
A Complete Unknown
Conclave
Dune: Part Two
Emilia Perez
I’m Still Here
Nickel Boys
The Substance
Wicked
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With a mix of blockbuster hits and independent gems, the Best Picture race remains highly competitive.
Where to Watch Oscar-Nominated Films?
Many of this year’s nominated films are still in theaters, but several are available for streaming. Platforms like Netflix, Disney+, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Video host multiple nominees, allowing audiences to catch up before the big night.
Who Are the Top Contenders for the Oscars?
Best Actress: Demi Moore (The Substance) leads the race, though Mikey Madison (Anora) remains a strong contender.
Best Actor: Adrien Brody is the favorite, but Timothée Chalamet (who won the SAG Award) could surprise everyone.
Best Supporting Actress: Zoe Saldana (Emilia Perez) is the frontrunner.
Best Supporting Actor: Kieran Culkin (A Real Pain) is expected to win.
