How to Watch Oscar Nominations 2026: Complete Guide to Time, Date, and Viewing Options

How to watch Oscar nominations 2026 is one of the top entertainment searches right now as Hollywood prepares to unveil the most anticipated list in film. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will announce the 2026 Oscar nominations on Tuesday, January 28, 2026, from the Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills, California.

For movie lovers across the United States, this early morning event marks the official start of Oscar season. It’s the moment when actors, directors, and fans find out which films will compete for Hollywood’s highest honors. Whether you’re watching on television, online, or through your favorite streaming platform, here’s everything you need to know to experience the nominations live.

When to Watch the 2026 Oscar Nominations

The Academy has confirmed that the Oscar nominations announcement will take place on Tuesday, January 28, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (5:30 a.m. Pacific Time).

This timing has become a long-standing tradition. Hollywood may be up before sunrise, but the excitement is always worth it. Viewers nationwide can tune in through ABC and several digital platforms to see the results in real time.

Where to Watch the Nominations Live

The 2026 Oscar nominations will be broadcast and streamed live across multiple official channels, making it easy for U.S. audiences to watch from anywhere.

Each platform will start its feed a few minutes before the official start time. Viewers can expect about 30 minutes of live coverage featuring presenters unveiling nominees in every major category.

Who Is Presenting the 2026 Oscar Nominations

As of January 22, 2026, the Academy has not announced which celebrities will present the nominations. The tradition of featuring two hosts—often respected actors or recent nominees—continues to give the event its star power.

In past years, presenters like Riz Ahmed, Allison Williams, and Zazie Beetz have brought energy and authenticity to the live broadcast. The presenters typically alternate reading categories such as Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, and Best Original Song.

The announcement usually includes brief commentary and visual slides showing the nominees in each category, allowing viewers to follow along smoothly from home.

How to Watch Oscar Nominations 2026 Online

If you’re not near a television, there are several easy ways to stream the nominations live from your phone, tablet, or computer.

1. The Academy’s YouTube Channel

The simplest and most accessible way to watch is through the Academy’s official YouTube channel, which will stream the event live in high definition. The feed goes live around 8:25 a.m. ET, and viewers can watch from any device with internet access.

2. Oscar.com and Oscars.org

The Academy’s own website will carry the same live broadcast, alongside real-time category updates. This is the fastest source for official confirmation of nominees as they’re read.

3. ABC App and Network Broadcast

For those with a cable subscription or live TV app, ABC will provide full national coverage. The ABC app allows streaming from anywhere once you log in with your provider credentials.

4. Good Morning America

Immediately after the nominations are announced, Good Morning America will feature extended coverage, including reactions, interviews, and expert analysis from entertainment reporters.

How to Watch if You Miss the Live Broadcast

Not everyone can catch the nominations live—especially with the early morning schedule. Luckily, there are several reliable ways to watch afterward.

• YouTube Replay: The Academy’s official channel will post the full recording shortly after the livestream ends.
• Oscar.com Archive: The Academy’s website uploads a full replay along with nominee lists and press materials.
• ABC’s Social Media Pages: Highlights and category clips appear within hours of the event.
• Streaming Services: Platforms like Hulu + Live TV and YouTube TV often make the full segment available on-demand later in the day.

These options allow viewers to enjoy the experience whenever convenient without missing any category announcements.

Categories Covered During the Announcement

The 2026 nominations will include more than 20 categories. While some are reserved for the televised ceremony, the nomination event typically highlights major awards such as:

• Best Picture
• Best Director
• Best Actor and Actress
• Best Supporting Actor and Actress
• Best Original Screenplay
• Best Adapted Screenplay
• Best Animated Feature
• Best Documentary Feature
• Best International Feature Film
• Best Original Song
• Best Visual Effects

The Academy ensures that each announcement is concise but impactful, setting the tone for the Oscars race.

When the Full List of Nominations Will Be Posted

Once the live broadcast concludes, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences immediately uploads the official list of 2026 Oscar nominees to its digital platforms. The process is quick, structured, and designed to ensure accuracy before the results are made public.

Within just a few minutes—typically 10 to 15 minutes after the broadcast ends—the Academy updates Oscar.com and Oscars.org with the complete lineup of nominees across every category. This list serves as the only verified, authoritative record of the nominations, reviewed and confirmed by the Academy and its auditing partner before publication.

How the Academy Publishes the Results

Once the on-air presenters finish reading the final category, the Academy’s communications team uploads the confirmed names, film titles, and production credits to the website’s live database. Each category page includes:

• The full name of each nominee and their corresponding film.
• A brief description of the nominated work or role.
• Direct links to official film pages or trailers, when available.
• Downloadable press materials for journalists and broadcasters.

This ensures that viewers, reporters, and film professionals receive identical information at the same time, eliminating confusion and speculation.

Where to Find the Official Nominee List

For those searching immediately after the livestream, the fastest way to view the complete nominations is by visiting Oscar.com, where the homepage banner will redirect to the “Nominations” section. The Academy’s secondary website, Oscars.org, also provides a categorized breakdown, formatted for readers, media, and industry professionals.

The Academy’s official social media accounts on X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook simultaneously post updates for major categories like Best Picture, Best Director, and acting awards. Within the hour, every category—from technical achievements like sound design to creative honors like original score—becomes available online.

How News Outlets Share the Information

Once the Academy publishes the verified list, entertainment programs and online publications immediately begin releasing summaries and analysis. Outlets such as ABC News, Variety, and major streaming platforms often republish the full slate of nominees, accompanied by highlight clips from the live broadcast.

Broadcast partners like Good Morning America and ABC News Live typically air real-time graphics and recaps, ensuring audiences can see the official nominees even if they missed the livestream. In addition, film blogs, YouTube channels, and podcasts release reaction segments within hours, using the same confirmed data provided by the Academy.

Why the Timing Matters

The Academy’s rapid online release is critical for accuracy and transparency. Because the nominations attract global attention, even minor delays could lead to misinformation spreading online. Posting the list directly on the official website ensures that fans, media outlets, and nominees themselves have instant access to verified results.

This quick digital update also supports international press agencies that translate and distribute the information across time zones, guaranteeing that everyone—from Los Angeles to London—receives the same data simultaneously.

Printable and Shareable Nominee Lists

For journalists, publicists, and film enthusiasts, the Academy provides downloadable, printable PDFs of the full nominee list. These documents are formatted for press kits and media coverage, making it easier to reference during live reporting, interviews, and awards predictions.

Many film schools, libraries, and entertainment networks also rely on these official documents for educational and industry analysis in the days following the announcement. The format includes detailed category structures, ensuring clarity across 20+ award segments, from Best Picture to Best Documentary Short.

When Other Platforms Update Their Listings

Soon after the Academy’s post, major streaming services such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, and Apple TV+ begin updating their apps and homepages. Films that receive nominations are highlighted with banners like “Oscar-Nominated 2026” or featured in curated sections titled “Now Nominated for an Academy Award.”

Movie theaters across the country often follow suit, adding special showtimes for nominated films. Many independent cinemas and streaming outlets release “Oscar Nominee Collections” within 24 hours, aligning perfectly with the Academy’s publication schedule.

For Those Who Want Instant Alerts

Fans who want the most immediate updates can turn on notifications for the Academy’s verified social media accounts or enable push alerts on the ABC app. These alerts deliver each major category’s nominees as soon as the information is posted online.

For those watching at work or school, this is the fastest and easiest way to stay updated without having to rewatch the broadcast.

What to Expect After the List Is Released

Following the official publication, nominees begin reacting publicly through statements, interviews, and social media posts. Within hours, the entertainment world shifts into high gear—press agents release congratulatory messages, film studios issue new promotional materials, and critics begin analyzing patterns in the nominations.

Audiences use the posted list to plan their movie-watching schedules ahead of the Academy Awards ceremony on March 22, 2026. Streaming platforms and theaters see noticeable spikes in viewership and ticket sales once the nominees are officially confirmed.

For film lovers, the posting of the complete list marks the beginning of the countdown to the Oscars ceremony itself—a moment that celebrates artistry, storytelling, and the year’s defining achievements in cinema.

How the Nominees Are Selected

The nomination process is one of the most meticulous in the film industry. More than 10,000 Academy members across multiple branches vote to determine nominees within their areas of expertise.

For instance, actors nominate actors, directors nominate directors, and so on. The entire Academy votes for Best Picture. Once ballots close, the auditing firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) verifies and secures all results.

Only two PwC representatives know the final list before it’s announced live, maintaining the secrecy and suspense that define nomination morning.

Post-Announcement Coverage

After the live reveal, the spotlight quickly shifts to reactions. ABC, GMA, and entertainment networks will provide post-event programming featuring interviews with newly nominated filmmakers and actors.

Streaming platforms often update their libraries immediately following the announcement, adding “Oscar Nominated” badges to eligible films. Viewers can expect curated playlists on Hulu, Disney+, Netflix, and Amazon Prime Video, helping audiences catch up on nominated titles ahead of the awards ceremony.

Major film critics and entertainment journalists will spend the rest of the day breaking down surprises, snubs, and frontrunners.

Why the Nominations Matter

The Oscar nominations don’t just recognize artistic excellence—they shape careers, influence distribution, and impact box office performance. A nomination can elevate a smaller independent film to international recognition and give actors newfound exposure.

For film studios, a nomination often means a renewed marketing campaign highlighting the achievement. For audiences, it’s a guide to the year’s most remarkable storytelling on screen.

The announcement also sets the stage for the 2026 Academy Awards ceremony, which will take place on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. The ceremony will be broadcast live on ABC, continuing a tradition that dates back to 1976.

Tips for Watching the Oscar Nominations Morning

The excitement surrounding the Oscar nominations morning is unlike any other event in Hollywood’s calendar. It’s the day when months of industry speculation and film predictions finally meet reality. For fans across the United States, watching the nominations live has become a yearly ritual — a moment that unites film lovers, critics, and casual viewers alike.

To make sure you don’t miss a single announcement or reaction, here are some helpful ways to get the best experience on January 28, 2026.

Wake Up Early and Get Ready for a Big Morning

The live announcement begins at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time (5:30 a.m. Pacific Time), and it’s broadcast live from the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater. That early start time means many viewers on the West Coast set alarms long before sunrise.

If you’re planning to watch before heading to work or school, prepare everything in advance — coffee, breakfast, and your streaming setup. Some viewers make it a mini tradition by hosting “Oscar morning watch parties,” complete with themed snacks or film trivia.

Even if you’re half-asleep when the first category is read, there’s a unique energy in watching history unfold live. This early-morning broadcast is often filled with genuine surprises, and many of those first reactions become the most memorable moments of the awards season.

Stream on Multiple Devices for Smooth Coverage

One of the best things about the 2026 nominations is that they’re easy to stream. To ensure you don’t face any interruptions, open multiple streaming options before the announcement begins.

The official Oscar.com livestream and The Academy’s YouTube channel are the most reliable sources. Having both open gives you a backup in case of buffering or delays. If you have a smart TV, connect to the YouTube stream for the big-screen experience, while keeping a second device (like your phone or tablet) handy for checking reactions online.

If you prefer network television, ABC’s live coverage offers a polished broadcast, often with pre-show commentary and expert analysis. For cord-cutters, services like Hulu + Live TV or YouTube TV also carry the ABC feed seamlessly.

Having more than one viewing option ensures you won’t miss a moment — especially if your connection fluctuates or you’re watching during a busy morning commute.

Follow Live Reactions and Conversations

The thrill of Oscar nomination day doesn’t end with the broadcast — it continues online. The instant each category is announced, social media lights up with reactions from fans, critics, and film insiders.

For the most dynamic coverage, follow updates on X (formerly Twitter), where hashtags like #Oscars2026, #OscarNominations, and #OscarNoms trend within minutes. Many entertainment journalists provide real-time commentary, giving insight into surprises, historical firsts, and major upsets.

Instagram and TikTok also host live updates and short reaction videos from celebrities, film studios, and fans around the world. If you’re active on these platforms, join the conversation by sharing your thoughts about the nominees or your favorite movies of the year.

Engaging online also lets you see how audiences are responding to key categories — especially competitive ones like Best Picture, Best Actor, or Best Director. Some moments, such as when a breakout film earns unexpected recognition, often dominate social media for hours after the event.

Take Notes and Build Your Watchlist

Part of the fun of nomination morning is planning your Oscar viewing journey. Once nominees are announced, take a few minutes to write down the titles that interest you most.

This year’s lineup is expected to include a mix of blockbuster hits, acclaimed independent films, and international features. Many nominated titles are available on streaming platforms, while others may return to theaters following their nomination.

Creating a personal Oscar watchlist helps you catch up on films you may have missed before the March 22 awards ceremony. It’s also a great way to appreciate the variety of storytelling recognized each year — from emotional dramas and visionary sci-fi epics to documentaries and animated masterpieces.

For film critics, students, and movie enthusiasts, keeping track of each nominee can also serve as a valuable record for analyzing industry trends and cinematic themes that define the year.

Plan Your Morning Schedule

Because the nominations happen early and move quickly, planning ahead helps you enjoy the moment without distractions. Here’s a quick checklist to prepare for the big morning:

• Set multiple alarms to ensure you don’t oversleep.
• Charge your devices the night before if you plan to stream online.
• Check your internet connection for stability.
• Prepare breakfast or coffee in advance so you’re ready to focus.
• Keep your TV or streaming app open by 8:20 a.m. ET to avoid missing the start.

Many fans also like to print or download the official category list from Oscar.com once the stream begins. That way, you can mark each nominee as they’re announced in real time.

Watch With Friends or Join Online Watch Parties

Watching the nominations can be more fun when shared with others. Whether in person or virtually, friends and families often gather to make predictions or react together to the surprises.

Several online communities host live chats or virtual watch parties through platforms like Discord, Reddit, and social media livestreams. These spaces allow fans to celebrate their favorite films and engage in friendly debates about which movies deserve to win.

If you’re joining online discussions, remember that the live stream moves fast. Keep the conversation positive and focus on the shared love of cinema that makes Oscar season special.

Pay Attention to the Reactions

Once the final categories are announced, networks like Good Morning America immediately switch to post-event coverage. These reactions provide valuable insight into how Hollywood insiders view the results.

You’ll often see emotional responses from first-time nominees, excited messages from directors, and statements from studios thanking the Academy. Many stars take to social media within minutes to share gratitude posts or short videos from their homes.

Watching these immediate reactions adds depth to the experience — you see the personal joy and surprise that can’t be scripted. It’s also a reminder of how meaningful recognition from the Academy can be for artists around the world.

Capture the Moment

Whether you’re a casual movie fan or a dedicated film buff, Oscar nomination morning is a piece of pop culture history. Take a photo or record a short clip of your viewing setup, and share your excitement online.

Many people keep a digital scrapbook of major entertainment events throughout the year, and the Oscar nominations are always a highlight. It’s a small way to document the films and performances that defined this era of cinema.

Enjoy the National Celebration

Even though the event happens before sunrise for some, the Oscar nominations have become a nationwide celebration. Offices, classrooms, and social media feeds buzz with discussions once the nominees are revealed.

From Los Angeles to New York, millions of Americans tune in to cheer for their favorite films. Local news stations often broadcast quick summaries, and radio hosts debate the year’s biggest surprises. For a few hours, the entertainment world and everyday life merge into one shared moment of excitement.

Whether you’re watching alone with coffee or surrounded by fellow film fans, it’s worth remembering that this event represents decades of filmmaking tradition. It’s not just a list of nominees—it’s a recognition of the creativity, collaboration, and storytelling that define American cinema.

The Morning That Sets the Tone

Each year, nomination morning sets the emotional tone for the rest of the Oscar season. Some studios celebrate record-breaking nominations, while others begin rallying around underdog films that could make history.

For viewers, it’s a reminder of how diverse and inspiring modern filmmaking has become. Every title announced carries its own story—of artists, challenges, and moments that connected with audiences worldwide.

By taking time to watch the nominations live, you become part of that celebration. You’re witnessing the first chapter of a global event that culminates in the Academy Awards ceremony two months later.

What Happens After the Nominations

Once the nominees are revealed, the campaign season begins. Nominees attend official Academy events such as the Oscar Nominees Luncheon, participate in interviews, and appear at industry panels.

The period between the nomination announcement and the ceremony is filled with screenings, press coverage, and celebrations. Studios highlight their contenders with “For Your Consideration” promotions, and movie theaters often re-release nominated titles for audiences catching up before the awards show.

The energy during this time builds steadily toward the final ceremony night, when winners are crowned in front of millions of viewers worldwide.

Why You Should Tune In

Even if you’re not deeply involved in the film industry, watching the Oscar nominations can be a thrilling experience. It’s one of the rare times when art, entertainment, and suspense converge in real time.

Each announcement captures genuine emotion—joy, surprise, and sometimes shock—as the year’s most creative achievements are recognized. For U.S. audiences, it’s a chance to join a global conversation about the power of cinema and storytelling.

This is why millions wake up early every year to watch it live. Whether you’re rooting for a blockbuster or an indie hit, the nominations morning brings everyone who loves movies together.

Final Word

If you’re wondering how to watch Oscar nominations 2026, set your calendar for Tuesday, January 28, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, and tune in to ABC, Oscar.com, or the Academy’s YouTube livestream. Watch it live, catch the replays later, and be part of one of Hollywood’s most exciting mornings.

The nominations not only honor excellence in film—they remind audiences why storytelling continues to inspire and unite people everywhere.

What movie are you hoping to see nominated this year? Share your predictions in the comments below.