In keeping with a cherished tradition, the Academy Awards will once again feature previous year's acting champions as presenters for its 2026 ceremony, ensuring a familiar and star-studded lineup for cinema enthusiasts.
The acclaimed actors from the 2025 Oscars—Mikey Madison, recognized for her role in “Anora”; Adrien Brody, honored for “The Brutalist”; Kieran Culkin, celebrated for “A Real Pain”; and Zoe Saldaña, awarded for “Emilia Pérez”—have all been confirmed to participate. This announcement, made by executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, marks the initial wave of presenters for the upcoming event. While their specific presentation duties remain undisclosed, historical patterns suggest that lead acting winners often present opposite gender categories, and supporting actors follow suit. The 2026 Oscars, hosted by Conan O’Brien for the second consecutive year, will be broadcast live from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 15th, beginning at 4 p.m. PT. Notably, “Sinners” leads this year's nominations with an impressive 16 nods, and only two original songs, “Golden” from “KPop Demon Hunters” and “I Lied to You” from “Sinners,” are slated for live performances.
The consistent engagement of past winners reinforces the timeless glamour and enduring legacy of the Academy Awards, connecting generations of cinematic excellence. These ceremonies not only honor outstanding achievements but also inspire future artists to pursue their craft with passion and dedication, contributing to the rich tapestry of global storytelling.