2026 Oscar Nominees Luncheon Highlights: Engaging Conversations and Key Moments Discover the standout moments and captivating discussions from the 2026 Oscar nominees luncheon. This event brought together the brightest talents in the film industry, showcasing their insights and experiences as they prepare for the prestigious Academy Awards. Key Highlights: Inspiring Talks: Hear from this year’s nominees as they share their journeys and the creative processes behind their acclaimed works....
The annual Oscar nominees luncheon is a long-standing tradition where nominees come together to celebrate their achievements and connect with fellow creatives. This year, the event was held at the prestigious Beverly Hilton, featuring 197 nominees, including four directors representing international films. Academy president Lynette Howell Taylor emphasized the significance of storytelling, stating, “Your storytelling is the greatest truth we have.” She underscored the essential role of cinema in shaping perspectives and cultures.
However, the event was marked by the absence of several notable nominees. Sean Penn, Renate Reinsve, and Mehdi Mahmoudian, who is currently imprisoned in Iran, were notably missed. Writer and director Jafar Panahi, also facing challenges in Iran, expressed a somber outlook regarding his future post-Oscars.
As nominees took their turns on stage for the traditional class photo, the loudest applause was reserved for stars from popular films. Members of the cast and crew from Sinners received enthusiastic cheers, particularly for Michael B. Jordan, Wunmi Mosaku, and Delroy Lindo, who is currently writing his memoirs. Director Ryan Coogler also garnered applause, along with the team behind One Battle After Another, which featured renowned writer and director Paul Thomas Anderson and the iconic Leonardo DiCaprio.
DiCaprio, who is set to collaborate with Martin Scorsese on an upcoming project featuring Jennifer Lawrence, expressed his eagerness for future releases, including David Fincher’s anticipated sequel to Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The excitement continued as Teyana Taylor mingled with Kate Hudson during the event, showcasing the camaraderie that defines these gatherings.
Among the nominees, Emma Stone, recognized for her role in Bugonia, received a warm reception, while the energetic KPop demon hunters team captured a memorable photo with Timothée Chalamet. Acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro, who helmed Frankenstein, also drew cheers, along with first-time nominee Jacob Elordi and talented composer Alexandre Desplat, who boasts an impressive 12 nominations.
Steven Spielberg, representing the film Hamnet, took to the stage as well. His brief interaction with Lindo contributed to the uplifting spirit of the day. The event culminated in a thrilling moment as top nominees, including Chalamet, Coogler, Anderson, Del Toro, and Jessie Buckley, were called together on stage, resulting in a standing ovation from the crowd.
The luncheon also served as a networking hub, fostering conversations among industry veterans. Ethan Hawke and Chloé Zhao engaged in an in-depth discussion, while Chalamet and DiCaprio were spotted sharing insights. The dynamic exchange of ideas continued with Benicio Del Toro and Oliver Laxe discussing their film Sirat, and Warner Bros. executive Michael De Luca conversing with producer Jerry Bruckheimer about numerous upcoming sequels, including a new Top Gun installment.
With Disney CEO Bob Iger absent, newly appointed Josh D’Amaro and content chief Dana Walden represented the company at the luncheon. They reaffirmed ABC’s commitment to airing the Oscars through 2028, after which the ceremony will transition to YouTube.
As the Oscars approach, excitement builds for the upcoming ceremony on March 15, where the coveted gold statue for Best Casting will be awarded. Executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan return for their third consecutive year, once again collaborating with host Conan O’Brien. This year promises surprises, including special appearances by Oscar veterans and a unique musical performance, which is why only two song nominee performances will be featured.
With box office hits like One Battle After Another, Sinners, Hamnet, and Marty supreme leading the nominations, anticipation is high for the ceremony. While many major categories seem predictable, craft categories, documentaries, and short films will keep viewers on their toes. Filmmakers should pay attention to the VFX team from Avatar: Fire and Ash, as they are expected to create a significant impact.
However, the event was marked by the absence of several notable nominees. Sean Penn, Renate Reinsve, and Mehdi Mahmoudian, who is currently imprisoned in Iran, were notably missed. Writer and director Jafar Panahi, also facing challenges in Iran, expressed a somber outlook regarding his future post-Oscars.0
However, the event was marked by the absence of several notable nominees. Sean Penn, Renate Reinsve, and Mehdi Mahmoudian, who is currently imprisoned in Iran, were notably missed. Writer and director Jafar Panahi, also facing challenges in Iran, expressed a somber outlook regarding his future post-Oscars.1