The producers of the 98th Academy Awards are aiming for a streamlined experience, targeting a runtime of three and a half hours or less. With Conan O’Brien returning to host, the show is expected to be fast-paced, witty, and deeply respectful of the cinematic craft. This effort to keep the show “dynamic” is part of a strategy to prevent the broadcast from feeling overly long or repetitive.
Lynette Howell Taylor, who has transitioned from producer to Academy President, brings a unique perspective to the show’s pacing. She understands that the broadcast must function like a well-edited movie to keep audiences engaged from start to finish. Her collaboration with CEO Bill Kramer has resulted in a show that is meticulously planned but remains open to “meeting the moment.”
A highlight of the upcoming ceremony will be the celebration of the first-ever Oscar for Casting. This new category aims to shine a light on the crucial work of identifying and securing the perfect talent for every role. High-profile films like Sinners have brought renewed attention to the art of casting, making this a timely addition to the awards lineup.
Ratings for the Oscars have been on a gradual upward trajectory, reaching 19.7 million viewers in 2025. The Academy is particularly pleased with the increase in younger viewers who watch on mobile devices and laptops. This demographic shift has been encouraged by strategic partnerships with digital influencers and the availability of the show on Hulu.
As the Academy approaches its 100th anniversary in 2028, it is already looking toward a digital-only future on YouTube in 2029. This transition is intended to make the Oscars a truly global event, accessible to anyone with an internet connection. The move will also see the Academy’s vast historical archives become available to the public in a new digital format.
Conan O’Brien to Host as Academy Awards Target Three-Hour Broadcast
