Oscars 2026: Here are all the moments you didn’t see on TV

Hollywood’s most prestigious night, the 98th Academy Awards, unfolded on Sunday, March 9, 2026, at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, delivering a captivating blend of emotional triumphs, comedic interludes, and unexpected behind-the-scenes drama. While the live broadcast showcased the glitz, the speeches, and the celebrated winners, a wealth of compelling moments transpired beyond the view of television cameras, offering a unique glimpse into the heart of the industry’s biggest celebration. From unprecedented security measures to rare historical ties and heartfelt backstage confessions, the evening was rich with details that illuminated the true essence of the Academy Awards.

Unprecedented Security Measures Transform Hollywood Boulevard

One of the most striking aspects of this year’s ceremony was the visibly enhanced security presence, a direct consequence of escalating global tensions stemming from the ongoing US and Israel’s war in Iran. Authorities in Los Angeles implemented an extensive, multi-layered security operation, transforming the typically bustling Hollywood Boulevard into a fortress designed to safeguard the thousands of attendees, including some of the world’s most recognizable celebrities and filmmakers.

Preparations for the event had been underway for weeks, involving meticulous traffic management plans, the establishment of multiple security perimeters, and a significantly heightened police presence throughout the entire Hollywood district. Armored LAPD SWAT vehicles were strategically positioned, and formidable fencing lined most of the streets surrounding the Dolby Theatre, which itself is nestled within the Ovation Hollywood shopping complex. This visible display of force created an atmosphere of both solemnity and reassurance, underscoring the gravity of the geopolitical climate.

Journalists and attendees experienced this stringent security firsthand. Entry points to the Loews Hotel, situated directly across from the Dolby Theatre and serving as the media hub, were subject to rigorous checks. Reporters, including Nardine Saad, described navigating two sets of metal detectors and having their bags meticulously sniffed by police dogs before being granted access to their designated positions in the interview room, where Oscar winners would later gather. Street closures, which had snarled local traffic for the preceding week to accommodate the construction of the sprawling red carpet and ceremonial entryways, were a constant reminder of the logistical complexities involved. The entire setup, while designed for safety, ironically contributed to the "movie magic" ambiance, with massive curtains draped over local shops and eateries to create a seamless, glamorous corridor leading to the Dolby, adorned with towering poles bearing the names of past Best Picture winners. This blend of heightened reality and constructed fantasy underscored the unique environment of the Oscars.

A Rare Tie Sends Reporters Scrambling for Historical Context

The 98th Academy Awards also delivered a moment of genuine surprise and historical significance when a rare tie was announced in the Best Short Action Film category. Both "The Singers" and "Two People Exchanging Saliva" were declared joint winners, a development that instantly ignited a flurry of activity in the winners’ room backstage.

While the Academy Awards boast a nearly century-long history, instances of a tie for an award are exceedingly rare, making this year’s occurrence a noteworthy addition to the annals of Oscar lore. In the immediate aftermath of the announcement, a palpable buzz spread among the assembled journalists. Notebooks and pens in hand, several reporters made a swift beeline to a designated corner of the ballroom, where Academy librarians are traditionally stationed to assist with fact-checking and historical inquiries. Their mission: to ascertain the last time two films had shared an Oscar. The experts confirmed that the most recent tie had occurred in 2013, when the films "Skyfall" and "Zero Dark Thirty" jointly received the award for Best Sound Editing, recognizing their outstanding technical achievements for the 2012 cinematic year. Prior to that, notable ties included Fredric March and Wallace Beery for Best Actor in 1932, and Katharine Hepburn and Barbra Streisand for Best Actress in 1968, underscoring the exceptional nature of such an outcome. The shared victory for "The Singers" and "Two People Exchanging Saliva" added another layer of unpredictability to an already eventful night, proving that even in its advanced age, the Academy Awards can still deliver unexpected twists.

Conan O’Brien’s Humorous Touch: The ‘Moderately Happy Meal’

Returning for his second consecutive year as host, comedian Conan O’Brien brought his signature blend of self-deprecating humor and quick wit to the 98th Academy Awards, leaving an indelible mark even on those not directly involved in the broadcast. One of his most charming and widely shared gestures was a hand-written message left under every seat inside the Dolby Theatre, accompanied by a thoughtful package of snacks. This thoughtful inclusion, dubbed the "Conan O’Brien ‘Moderately Happy Meal’," was a lighthearted welcome for nominees, their guests, and even the often-overlooked seat fillers.

The note, which quickly circulated across social media platforms, perfectly encapsulated O’Brien’s comedic style. It read, in part: "These snacks may not look like much but in any movie theater they would run you $85. Good luck tonight, have fun, and remember that loud, enthusiastic laughter is good for your health and my ego." This playful jab at exorbitant concession prices and his characteristic self-effacing humor resonated deeply with attendees and viewers alike. When queried by the BBC, an Academy spokeswoman confirmed the authenticity and widespread distribution of the notes, stating, "It’s real and it’s under every seat."

While those of us in the interview room did not receive the coveted "Moderately Happy Meal," the Loews Hotel graciously provided a continuous supply of dinner and snacks throughout the lengthy ceremony, ensuring the media corps remained sustained. O’Brien’s initiative not only provided a moment of levity and personal connection but also highlighted his commitment to creating an enjoyable experience for everyone present, reinforcing his reputation as a beloved and engaging host. His ability to connect with the audience, both in the theatre and at home, contributed significantly to the overall positive reception of the 98th Oscars telecast.

"KPop Demon Hunters" Makes History with Best Original Song Win

One of the most culturally significant moments of the 98th Academy Awards was the groundbreaking victory of "Golden" from the animated film "KPop Demon Hunters" in the Best Original Song category. This marked a historic first for the Academy, as it was the first time a K-pop song had ever been honored with an Oscar, signaling the undeniable global impact and artistic recognition of the genre.

The triumph was a collective effort, with songwriters Ejae and Mark Sonnenblick, along with the film’s creative team, accepting the prestigious award. However, as is often the case with the tightly timed Oscar telecast, their acceptance speech was regrettably cut short. Fortunately, the backstage winners’ room provided an invaluable platform for them to complete their heartfelt remarks, sharing thoughts and acknowledgments that the television audience did not get to hear.

Backstage, the team expressed profound gratitude, specifically thanking their families, the talented singers Audry Nuna and Rei Ami who performed the track, the IDO members, and Teddy Park for this "incredible honor." Mark Sonnenblick, who hadn’t had the opportunity to speak during the live broadcast, eagerly took the microphone. He extended his thanks to his husband and everyone who contributed to the movie, with a special shout-out to the animators. Sonnenblick eloquently articulated the film’s core message: "It was a real collaboration across the board. It’s a movie where part of the movie is about looking at someone that you have been taught to hate and to fear and starting to trust them, maybe even love them." He further emphasized the collaborative spirit behind their success, stating, "It’s not ‘I’m going up up up.’ It’s, ‘we’re going up up up.’ And that’s part of the reason that we’re on stage right now."

Director Maggie Kang, also a key figure in the "KPop Demon Hunters" team, echoed these sentiments, doubling down on her earlier remarks during her brief acceptance speech. She expressed immense pride in "Korean film and movies about Korea," articulating a powerful sense of national and cultural achievement. "It just feels like we have both trophies, and I just feel immensely proud. And really, to be honest, I didn’t want to disappoint Korea." This win not only celebrated the artistic merit of "Golden" but also symbolized a significant milestone in the increasing global fusion and recognition of diverse cultural expressions within the mainstream entertainment industry, further cementing K-pop’s ascent as a worldwide phenomenon.

Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s Pioneering Win in Cinematography

The 98th Academy Awards also witnessed another monumental first with Autumn Durald Arkapaw’s win for Best Cinematography for her work on "Sinners." Her victory was particularly significant as she became the first woman in the nearly century-long history of the Oscars to claim this award, breaking a longstanding barrier in a field traditionally dominated by men.

The gravity of her achievement was evident in her emotional backstage comments, where she reflected on the broader implications of her win. Arkapaw shared a powerful sentiment, stating, "A lot of little girls that look like me will sleep really well tonight because they want to become cinematographers. And I know that just being on stage, getting this award or movie, that will change so many girls’ lives because they’ll be inspired when they weren’t before." Her words underscored the profound impact of representation, highlighting how visible success can open doors and ignite aspirations for future generations.

Durald Arkapaw also took the opportunity to express profound gratitude to the network of women who had championed her throughout her career and during the awards season. "Moments like this don’t happen without women kind of standing up for you and advocating for you. I know that this happened because of that, so I want to say thank you." This acknowledgment shed light on the crucial role of mentorship, solidarity, and active advocacy in breaking down systemic barriers within the industry. Historically, while women have excelled in various cinematic roles, the cinematography category has been particularly resistant to female recognition, with only a handful of women previously nominated. Arkapaw’s win for "Sinners" not only celebrated her exceptional artistic vision and technical skill but also served as a powerful testament to the ongoing push for greater inclusivity and equitable recognition in Hollywood, marking a pivotal moment for aspiring female cinematographers worldwide.

Amy Madigan Teases a ‘Weapons’ Prequel for Aunt Gladys

Adding a touch of speculative excitement to the post-award celebrations, Best Supporting Actress winner Amy Madigan hinted at the possibility of a prequel film centered on her chilling character, Aunt Gladys, from the acclaimed horror film "Weapons." Madigan, who delivered a standout performance as the villain, emerged from the winners’ room with her Oscar, engaging with the media about her future projects and the creative process behind her memorable role.

When asked about the recurring discussions surrounding a prequel, Madigan acknowledged that the idea has been floated "a number of times." She shared insights gleaned from the film’s writer-director, Zach Cregger, who she indicated was keen on the concept. "He kind of says, ‘Yes, this is going to happen.’ But we know how long stuff takes. We know what this business is like, and nothing’s real till it is," she cautiously remarked, reflecting the inherent uncertainties and often protracted development timelines within the film industry. Her pragmatic yet hopeful tone resonated with the realities of Hollywood production.

Despite the inherent delays and complexities, Madigan expressed enthusiasm for the prospect, emphasizing her trust in Cregger’s creative vision. "But if it worked out that would be great, because I trust Zach, and he’s got a lot of wacky ideas." This brief exchange offered fans a tantalizing glimpse into the potential expansion of the "Weapons" universe, particularly for a character that clearly captivated audiences and critics alike. Madigan’s nuanced portrayal of Aunt Gladys, a complex antagonist in a genre film, not only earned her critical acclaim and an Oscar but also sparked genuine interest in exploring the character’s backstory, further cementing her impact on the horror landscape.

Reflections on the 98th Academy Awards: A Night of Resilience and Evolution

The 98th Academy Awards, held amidst a backdrop of global uncertainty and heightened security, ultimately stood as a testament to the resilience and evolving nature of the film industry. Beyond the tightly choreographed main ceremony, the unseen moments and backstage narratives painted a picture of an event that skillfully balanced traditional Hollywood glamour with contemporary issues and a growing commitment to diversity and recognition.

The meticulous security arrangements, driven by geopolitical concerns, underscored the complex environment in which major global events now operate. Yet, within this secure perimeter, the spirit of celebration and artistic appreciation thrived. The historic tie in the Best Short Action Film category, a rare occurrence in Oscar history, added an element of spontaneous drama, reminding everyone of the unpredictability that can still define even the most carefully planned spectacles.

Conan O’Brien’s thoughtful and humorous gesture with the "Moderately Happy Meal" provided a personal touch that resonated deeply, illustrating how genuine connection can cut through the formality of a grand event. Meanwhile, the groundbreaking wins for "KPop Demon Hunters" and Autumn Durald Arkapaw were far more than just individual accolades; they were powerful statements about the broadening scope of cinematic excellence and the increasing inclusivity of the Academy. The K-pop victory signaled a global cultural shift, while Arkapaw’s pioneering win shattered a significant glass ceiling, inspiring countless aspiring female filmmakers.

Even the speculative tease of an "Aunt Gladys" prequel by Amy Madigan offered a glimpse into the ongoing creative ferment within Hollywood, where successful characters can transcend their original narratives. The press room, often overlooked by the television audience, proved once again to be a crucial arena for these unscripted, human moments—where winners could complete their thoughts, share deeper insights, and reflect on the true meaning of their achievements. The 98th Academy Awards, therefore, was not just a show of stars and statuettes, but a multifaceted narrative of adaptation, triumph, and the enduring power of storytelling in a complex world.