The 2026 Academy Awards are set to feature a host of surprises, including a special ‘Bridesmaids’ reunion and a Marvel cast reunion, according to Oscars telecast executive producers Katy Mullan and Raj Kapoor.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday with host Conan O’Brien and key creative team members, Kapoor confirmed, “We have a huge reunion happening. There’s been rumours, and we are very excited to announce a Bridesmaids reunion that is going to be very special.”
Mullan added that superhero fans would also see a Marvel reunion and hinted at “an extraterrestrial on the stage.” Rose Byrne, nominated for her role in ‘If I Had Legs I’d Kick You’, will join co-stars Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph and Melissa McCarthy for the 15th anniversary celebration.
The producers also addressed the In Memoriam segment, noting the challenge of honouring the many film industry figures lost this year. Mullan said, “It continues to change right up until rehearsal, because we want the balance just right and to ensure it feels like the right moment in the show.”
Security will be heightened this year, following an FBI alert regarding a potential drone threat in California. Kapoor confirmed collaboration with the FBI and LAPD to ensure safety for attendees and viewers outside the venue.
This year’s ceremony carries the theme of ‘humanity’. Production designer Misty Buckley described the stage as incorporating organic forms, layered lighting, and trees to create a sense of human touch and natural beauty.
Choreographer Mandy Moore emphasised that musical performances would celebrate the films themselves, rather than merely recreating iconic scenes.
The producers also outlined plans to honour ‘Sinners’, the most-nominated film in Oscars history, with contributions from costume designer Ruth E. Carter, choreographer Aakomon Jones and a team of dancers including Misty Copeland.
Music director Michael Bearden said the score and performances will highlight human connection and emotion, reflecting the ceremony’s theme.
O’Brien, returning for a second year as host, noted the importance of balancing entertainment with acknowledgement of real-world events, including current conflicts and recent challenges faced by the creative community.
Finally, the producers revealed that Matt Berry, star of ‘What We Do in the Shadows’, will serve as the show’s announcer, bringing his signature humour to the telecast.
The 2026 Oscars air live from the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 15, beginning at 4:00 pm PT on ABC and Hulu.
