Oscar nominations are typically announced in late January or early February each year, and the 2026 ceremony will follow that pattern. In the United States, the official live telecast is usually carried by a major broadcast network, while streaming partners vary by region and may include subscription services and ad-supported tiers.
This evergreen guide explains how to watch the nominations announcement and telecast in 2026 and future years, with a focus on U.S. options and practical steps for checking local availability.
Broadcasters and Streaming Services
The Academy Awards telecast is produced by television networks, not streaming platforms. However, many services provide live streaming of the ceremony when they carry the network feed. As of recent years, the English-language U.S. broadcast has been carried by one of the major networks, and streaming is typically available through their apps and connected-TV apps.
| Service | Live Telecast Coverage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Broadcast Network (e.g., ABC, CBS, NBC) | Yes | Carries the official Academy Awards telecast depending on the year. |
| Network App (e.g., ABC app, network streaming site) | Yes (with TV provider authentication or ad-supported tier) | Availability may require login with cable provider or ad-supported account. |
| Streaming services carrying broadcast channels (YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream) | Yes | Includes local channels when add-on local networks are enabled. |
| Local CBS, ABC, NBC, Fox, or MyNetworkTV affiliate | Yes (over-the-air) | Use a TV antenna; check affiliate schedule to confirm coverage. |
| Academy’s official digital channels | No (usually) | Highlights and press coverage, but not the live telecast. |
Checking Streaming Availability
Because streaming availability depends on your location and your TV provider access, confirm eligibility before the event. If you rely on an ad-supported tier, verify whether it includes the network airing the Oscars in 2026.
Regional and International Options
Outside the U.S., you have additional options. Many countries have their own broadcasters and may stream the ceremony on local TV and digital services. Availability can differ by country, with some regions offering live streams on international services only with a compatible subscription and VPN.
If you are traveling or live outside the U.S., check local listings and use official broadcaster sites to find out how to watch Oscar nominations and the ceremony from your location.
Where to Watch Oscar Nominations Announcement
Nominations are usually announced at a live global event and streamed online. In recent years, the live stream has been available on the Academy’s official website and verified social channels. While the telecast is handled by broadcasters, the nominations presentation is generally accessible without a TV provider.
- Academy website and official YouTube channel
- Participating news and entertainment publishers
- Social platforms with verified streams
Confirm the date and time using official Academy communications and trusted sources to avoid unofficial streams.
Avoiding Unofficial and Pirated Streams
Unauthorized streams often violate copyright and can expose devices to malware. Stick to official network apps, authenticated streaming services, and verified digital platforms. Check schedules early and bookmark official sources so you know exactly where to watch when the nominations and telecast air.
Key Timelines and Deadlines
While exact dates are set closer to the event, the typical pattern helps you plan. Nominations are announced in late January or early February, and the telecast follows about a month later. Begin checking provider and streaming access in mid-January so you can confirm how to watch on launch day.
| Event | Typical Timing | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Nominations announcement | Late January or early February | Determines viewing plans and media coverage. |
| Telecast | Four to six weeks after nominations | Time to confirm streaming or TV access. |
Terms to Know
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Live telecast | The televised broadcast of the ceremony, usually on a broadcast or cable network. |
| Local affiliate | Regional stations that carry network programming, including ABC, CBS, and NBC. |
| TV provider authentication | Login through a cable or satellite provider to access live streams on network apps. |
| Ad-supported tier | Lower-cost streaming plans that include commercials and may carry live broadcast channels. |
Planning Your Viewing Setup
On the day of the nominations, confirm the time in your local zone and verify which service will carry the event in your area. If you plan to stream, test your login and bandwidth in advance. For over-the-air viewing, ensure your antenna is positioned correctly and your television is set to local channels.
By checking these details ahead of time, you can focus on the announcements and the performances rather than troubleshooting at the last minute.