The 97th Academy Awards: A Night of Surprises and Celebration

The 97th Academy Awards are just hours away, and the anticipation is palpable. This year’s Oscars ceremony, taking place at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, promises to be one of the most unpredictable in recent memory. With several major categories still up for grabs and a host of first-time nominees vying for glory, the stage is set for a night filled with surprises, memorable moments, and, of course, plenty of glamour. As the culmination of a thrilling awards season, this year’s Oscars are a must-watch event for film enthusiasts and pop culture fans alike.

What You Need to Know About the 97th Academy Awards

The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 7 p.m. Eastern Time (4 p.m. Pacific Time) and will be broadcast live on ABC. For those who prefer streaming, the event will also be available on platforms like Hulu, Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV. International viewers can check their local listings to catch the Oscars in their region. One of the most tightly contested races this year is for Best Picture, with films like Anora and Conclave leading the charge. However, Emilia Pérez has faced some uncertainty due to controversy surrounding its star, Karla Sofía Gascón, leaving fans and pundits alike wondering how this might impact its chances.

The night’s lineup of presenters is equally impressive, featuring Hollywood heavyweights such as Emma Stone, Cillian Murphy, Robert Downey Jr., and Whoopi Goldberg. Adding to the excitement, Conan O’Brien will take on the role of host, bringing his signature wit and charm to the proceedings. For those who can’t get enough of the Oscars, the red carpet pre-show will kick off at 6:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC and Hulu, while E! will begin its coverage even earlier at 4 p.m. Eastern. With so much to look forward to, the 97th Academy Awards are shaping up to be a truly unforgettable event.

A Last-Minute Update: Harrison Ford Withdraws from the Oscars

In a surprise twist, Hollywood legend Harrison Ford has announced that he will no longer be attending the 2025 Academy Awards. According to Entertainment Weekly, the 82-year-old actor was diagnosed with shingles, a condition caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which is the same virus responsible for chickenpox. Ford, who was slated to present at the ceremony alongside other A-listers like Dave Bautista, Gal Gadot, Andrew Garfield, and Samuel L. Jackson, has understandably decided to rest and recover instead.

Ford’s withdrawal comes just a day after his diagnosis, and while fans are certainly disappointed, they are also sending their best wishes for his health. The actor, who is best known for his iconic roles in films like Indiana Jones and Star Wars, has been enjoying a busy year, recently attending the 2025 SAG Awards, where he shared a lighthearted moment with his Shrinking co-star Jessica Williams. Despite his absence from the Oscars, Ford remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, and his well-being is on everyone’s mind.

How to Watch the 97th Academy Awards

For viewers eager to catch every moment of the Oscars, there are plenty of ways to tune in. The ceremony will air live on ABC, ensuring that traditional TV viewers can enjoy the event in its entirety. However, for those who prefer streaming, the Oscars will also be available on a variety of platforms, including Hulu, Hulu Live TV, YouTube TV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV. This makes it easier than ever to watch the ceremony from the comfort of your own home—or even on the go.

International fans don’t have to miss out on the action either. The Academy Awards are broadcast in numerous countries around the world, so viewers outside the U.S. can check their local listings to find out where and when to watch the ceremony in their region. Whether you’re a die-hard movie buff or just a casual observer, there’s no shortage of ways to experience Hollywood’s biggest night.

Red Carpet Coverage: A Sneak Peek at the Glamour

The red carpet is always one of the most anticipated aspects of the Oscars, and this year is no exception. The pre-show coverage will begin at 6:30 p.m. Eastern on ABC and Hulu, giving fans a front-row seat to all the glamour and glitz as the stars arrive at the Dolby Theatre. Those who want even more red carpet content can tune into E! starting at 4 p.m. Eastern, where they’ll find in-depth interviews, fashion analysis, and behind-the-scenes insights into the making of this year’s most talked-about films.

The red carpet is not just about the clothes—it’s also a chance for the nominees and presenters to share their thoughts on their films, their experiences, and their hopes for the night ahead. With so many talented individuals expected to walk the carpet, this year’s pre-show promises to be as engaging as ever. Whether you’re a fashion aficionado or simply love the magic of Old Hollywood, the red carpet coverage is an essential part of the Oscars experience.

Stay Tuned for Live Updates from the Oscars

As the 97th Academy Awards get underway, Newsweek will be bringing you live updates from the heart of Hollywood. From the first moments of the red carpet to the final acceptance speeches, we’ll keep you informed about all the major highlights, surprises, and victories of the night. With such a competitive lineup of films and talent, this year’s ceremony is sure to deliver plenty of unforgettable moments, and we’re excited to share them with you as they unfold.

Whether you’re watching the Oscars on TV, streaming them online, or following along on social media, there’s no shortage of ways to stay connected to Hollywood’s biggest night. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show—because in the words of the iconic phrase, “It’s showtime!”