Overview
- Roughly 230 nominees across 24 categories convened at the Beverly Hilton, representing 29 countries and a record 76 women in the first year that includes a Best Casting Oscar.
- Lynette Howell Taylor urged winners to be ready, keep remarks to about 45 seconds and avoid exhaustive thank‑you lists.
- The luncheon restored the full tradition after 2025’s wildfire cancellation, featuring randomized seating, a roll call and the annual class photo led by Lou Diamond Phillips.
- Ryan Coogler’s Sinners drew notable attention after earning an Oscars‑record 16 nominations, with One Battle After Another and Bugonia among other leading contenders.
- Final voting opens Feb. 26 ahead of the 98th Academy Awards on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre, hosted by Conan O’Brien and airing on ABC with streaming on Hulu.