Can You Watch Oscars 2026 Live in TV? Here's When, Where and How to Watch The Ceremony

Published 03/15/2026, 3:19 AM EDT

Every year, Hollywood’s most glamorous night brings together the biggest names in film, unforgettable red carpet moments, and the celebration of cinematic excellence. As anticipation builds for the 2026 ceremony, fans across the world are eager to find out how they can tune in and experience the spectacle in real time. From star-studded arrivals to emotional acceptance speeches, the Oscars have long been one of the most widely watched entertainment events globally.

With viewers planning watch parties and late-night viewing sessions, knowing exactly where and how to watch the ceremony becomes essential.

The good news is that there are multiple ways to follow the event live without missing a moment of the action.

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Where can one watch the Oscars 2026 live on TV?

For viewers who prefer the traditional television experience, the 98th Academy Awards will air live on ABC in the United States. Anyone with a cable or satellite package that includes the network can tune in directly to watch the ceremony unfold from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood in Los Angeles. The show begins on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT, with red carpet coverage typically starting about 30 minutes earlier.

Those who rely on free broadcast television can still watch the ceremony using a digital over-the-air antenna, which allows viewers within range of their local ABC station to watch the event without a paid subscription. This year’s ceremony will once again be hosted by Conan O’Brien, returning for a second year to guide audiences through Hollywood’s biggest night.

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As viewing habits evolve, many fans now prefer streaming platforms that allow them to watch major events on their own devices.

Streaming options to watch the Oscars 2026 Live

The 2026 ceremony will also stream live on Hulu, allowing subscribers to watch the event without needing the Hulu + Live TV add-on. This makes it one of the easiest digital options for viewers who prefer streaming the awards show on their phones, tablets, or smart TVs while it airs live. Several other live-TV streaming platforms that carry American Broadcasting Company (ABC) will also broadcast the ceremony in real time.

These include YouTube TV, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and AT&V TV. Many of these services offer trial periods or flexible subscription options, giving viewers additional ways to tune in and watch the Oscars live without relying on traditional cable television.

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In the end, the 2026 Oscars offer multiple viewing options for audiences who want to follow Hollywood’s biggest night in real time. From traditional television broadcasts to convenient streaming platforms, viewers have several ways to watch the ceremony live and stay connected to the celebration of the year’s best films. With the event promising red carpet glamour, major wins, and memorable speeches, the 98th Academy Awards continues to stand as one of the most anticipated nights in the entertainment industry.

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Will you tune in to watch the Oscars 2026 live on TV or streaming? Let us know in the comments! 

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Karishma Dasgupta

139 articles

Karishma is an entertainment journalist at Netflix Junkie. She enjoys digging deep into stories and bringing clarity to the often fast-moving world of entertainment. She holds a double Master’s degree in Fashion Business Management and Digital Marketing.

Edited By: Adiba Nizami

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