The 98th Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars 2026, is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the global film industry. Every year millions of movie lovers tune in to watch Hollywood’s biggest stars celebrate the best films, actors, directors, and creative achievements of the year.

If you are wondering how to watch Oscars 98th Academy Awards online, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From the official broadcast channel to online streaming platforms and international viewing options, this article will help you watch the event live from anywhere in the world.

When Is the 98th Academy Awards?

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences organizes the Academy Awards each year to honor outstanding achievements in cinema.

The 98th Academy Awards will take place on March 15, 2026, at the iconic Dolby Theatre.

Official Start Time

The ceremony begins at different times depending on your region:

• 7:00 PM Eastern Time (ET)

• 4:00 PM Pacific Time (PT)

• 11:00 PM GMT

• 5:30 AM IST (March 16)

Fans across the world will be watching the ceremony live to see which films and actors take home the most prestigious awards in Hollywood.

How to Watch Oscars 98th Academy Awards Online

If you want to watch the 98th Academy Awards online, there are several official streaming options available.

1. Watch the Oscars on ABC (Official Broadcast)

The Oscars are traditionally broadcast in the United States on American Broadcasting Company, commonly known as ABC.

Viewers in the United States can watch the ceremony live through:

• Cable TV

• Satellite TV

• ABC’s official website

• ABC mobile apps

If you already have a cable subscription that includes ABC, you can simply log in to the ABC platform and watch the show online.

2. Stream the Oscars Live on Hulu

Another popular way to watch the Oscars online is through Hulu.

Hulu provides access to the ABC live broadcast through its Hulu + Live TV service. This allows viewers to watch the Oscars on:

• Smartphones

• Tablets

• Smart TVs

• Laptops

• Streaming devices

Hulu has become one of the most convenient options for viewers who prefer streaming instead of traditional cable television.

3. Watch Using YouTube TV

Many viewers also watch the Oscars using YouTube TV, which includes ABC in its channel lineup.

Benefits of YouTube TV include:

• Cloud DVR recording

• HD streaming

• Multi-device support

• Easy access through Google accounts

If ABC is available in your local market through YouTube TV, you can stream the entire ceremony live without needing cable.

4. Stream the Oscars on FuboTV

Another option for watching the Oscars online is FuboTV.

FuboTV offers live television streaming with access to major channels, including ABC in certain regions. The service is widely used for sports streaming but also covers major entertainment events like the Oscars.

Some advantages include:

• Free trial for new users

• High-quality streaming

• Multiple device compatibility

5. Watch Through DIRECTV Stream

Viewers can also access the Oscars via DIRECTV Stream, which carries the ABC network in many U.S. markets.

DIRECTV Stream allows users to:

• Stream live TV

• Watch on-demand content

• Record programs through cloud DVR

This option is especially useful for viewers who have recently switched from cable to online TV services.

How to Watch the Oscars 2026 Outside the United States

The Oscars are broadcast in more than 200 countries worldwide, making it a truly global entertainment event.

International viewers have several ways to watch the 98th Academy Awards depending on their region.

United Kingdom

In the UK, viewers can watch the Oscars on:

• ITV

• ITVX

India

In India, the ceremony is usually broadcast through:

• Disney+ Hotstar

• Star Movies TV channels

Canada

Canadian viewers can watch through:

• CTV Television Network

Each region may have different official broadcasting partners.

Can You Watch the Oscars for Free?

Many viewers search for ways to watch the Oscars online for free. While the official broadcast usually requires a subscription, there are a few legal options:

Free Trial Streaming Services

Some streaming services offer free trial periods, including:

• YouTube TV

• FuboTV

• Hulu + Live TV

If the free trial is still available in your region, you may be able to watch the Oscars without paying for a subscription.

However, availability varies depending on the platform and location.

What Happens During the Oscars Ceremony?

The Oscars ceremony is a glamorous and star-studded event that celebrates the best achievements in the film industry.

The show typically includes:

• Awards in 24 categories

• Celebrity presenters

• Live musical performances

• Emotional acceptance speeches

• The iconic Best Picture award announcement

Millions of viewers tune in every year to see their favorite actors, filmmakers, and movies win awards.

Oscars Red Carpet Live Stream

Before the main ceremony begins, fans can watch the famous Oscars Red Carpet event.

This pre-show features:

• Celebrity interviews

• Fashion highlights

• Behind-the-scenes moments

• Early award predictions

The red carpet coverage usually starts about one hour before the ceremony begins.

You can watch the red carpet live on:

• ABC’s official platforms

• Entertainment news websites

• YouTube entertainment channels

Why the Oscars Are So Popular Worldwide

The Oscars are more than just an award ceremony. They represent the highest level of recognition in the film industry.

Winning an Oscar can significantly boost a film’s global popularity and box office success. Many actors and directors consider an Oscar win the biggest achievement of their careers.

Because of its prestige, the ceremony attracts viewers from around the world every year.

Final Thoughts

The 98th Academy Awards will once again bring together the biggest names in Hollywood for an unforgettable celebration of cinema.

If you want to know how to watch Oscars 98th Academy Awards online, the easiest options include:

• Watching on American Broadcasting Company (ABC)

• Streaming through Hulu

• Using YouTube TV

• Watching via FuboTV

No matter where you are in the world, there are multiple ways to enjoy Hollywood’s biggest night live.

So prepare your snacks, tune in to the live stream, and enjoy one of the most exciting nights in entertainment.