Oscars latest: The red carpet is now open – and the stars are starting to arrive
Oscars latest: The red carpet is now open – and the stars are starting to arrive
Oscars Sunday has arrived, with a star-studded gathering at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Prominent figures such as Jessie Buckley, Michael B Jordan, Timothee Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Emma Stone are among the contenders for tonight’s ceremony. Real-time updates from Los Angeles are being delivered by Sky News.
Just ten minutes remain before the festivities begin. The red carpet has already drawn attention, featuring some of the most striking fashion choices of the year.
Chloe Zhao, nominated for both best director and best adapted screenplay for *Hamnet*, made headlines with her bold all-black ensemble and face veil. Meanwhile, Kevin O’Leary, a Canadian entrepreneur and *Dragon’s Den* alum, opted for a vibrant suit jacket, adding a splash of color to the event.
The Dolby Theatre, located on Hollywood Boulevard, is the setting for tonight’s glitzy affair. This Broadway-style venue, known for its grand stage and balcony seating, has hosted the Oscars since its debut in 2001. Katie Spencer, our arts and entertainment correspondent, shared insights from the scene:
“The Dolby Theatre is a historic space, blending theatrical grandeur with modern glamour. While the red carpet and decor create a picture-perfect atmosphere, the venue’s true charm lies in its hidden location beside a shopping center. That detail is often overlooked by the cameras, ensuring the event maintains its lavish facade.”
Jafar Panahi, the Iranian director, walked the red carpet, highlighting the political backdrop of the evening. His film *It Was Just An Accident* is up for two awards, and he plans to return home afterward. Panahi received a one-year sentence last year for “propaganda activities” against Iran’s government, as the nation continues its tensions with the US and Israel.
Some past winners have also returned to the stage. Zoe Saldana, last year’s best supporting actress for *Emilia Perez*, and Kieran Culkin, who claimed the equivalent male award for *A Real Pain*, will present honors tonight. Their presence underscores the event’s legacy and continuity.
In the past hour, the main players of the 98th Academy Awards have taken to the red carpet. Jessie Buckley, the frontrunner for best actress, joined Joachim Trier, nominated for best director and best original screenplay for *Sentimental Value*. Elle Fanning and Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, both in the running for best supporting actress, are also present. Wagner Moura, celebrated for his role as Pablo Escobar in *Narcos*, competes in the best actor category for *The Secret Agent*, facing off against Chalamet, Jordan, and DiCaprio.
These selections mark a milestone, with Moura and Ibsdotter Lilleaas among the four non-English language acting nominees in 2026—a new record for the Oscars.
Meanwhile, British director Lee Knight, nominated for his short film *A Friend Of Dorothy*, is making his debut in Hollywood. His work, starring Miriam Margolyes as a lonely widow and Alistair Nwachukwu as a teenage boy, has generated significant anticipation. Knight, who has been in LA for weeks, shared his thoughts:
“It’s all been a whirlwind. You pour your heart into a project, focusing on the craft, and then suddenly everything shifts to awards and campaigns. Even Meryl Streep, a legend in her own right, must feel the thrill of a nomination. I’m still trying to wrap my head around it all.”