The day after the 98th Academy Awards, executive producer and showrunner Raj Kapoor reflected on the highs and challenges of Hollywood’s biggest night. After months of preparation, he admitted the feeling of exhaustion was accompanied by pride in what the team achieved for nominees and viewers worldwide.
“I feel really good,” Kapoor told The Associated Press. “You work so hard to put something together, and the next day you are completely exhausted. It is still an amazing feeling to see it all come together.”
Even with meticulous planning, Kapoor said there is only so much control when producing a live television show. Surprises are inevitable, and adaptability is key.
The evening’s most unexpected moment came when Kumail Nanjiani announced a tie for Best Live-Action Short Film. Kapoor explained that Nanjiani had been informed by Oscar accountants moments before going on stage but had received no instructions on how to handle it. “He managed the moment perfectly, announcing each winner individually so both could have their time in the spotlight,” Kapoor said.
Viewers noticed moments when host Conan O’Brien appeared caught off guard. Kapoor praised O’Brien’s improvisational skills, saying, “He is the master of reaction and sometimes it is hard to tell what is planned and what is genuine. That is part of what makes him so talented.”
The performance of ‘Sinners’ continued even after the broadcast switched to a commercial. Kapoor said a reprise had been planned for the juke joint recreation. “The energy in the room was electric and nobody wanted the moment to end. We had to transition the stage, but the performers were fully immersed in that celebration,” he said.
Kapoor explained that keeping the Oscars under three and a half hours requires constant monitoring. “During the second half of the show, we must make crucial decisions to stay on schedule,” he said. One such decision came during the Best Original Song presentation, when the orchestra played at full volume to end the speech on time. Winners are briefed in advance, but the show’s pace sometimes requires strict adherence.
One of the most delicate parts of the show was the in memoriam segment, which featured stars celebrating figures such as Robert Redford. Kapoor called it a deeply considered part of the ceremony. “It is designed to resonate with both the audience in the room and viewers at home. If it brings a tear to someone’s eye, we feel we have done our job,” he said.
He also praised the winners’ speeches, highlighting Michael B. Jordan and Jessie Buckley for addressing a broad spectrum of viewers worldwide. “The speeches spoke to everyone, from sentimental memories to thanking mothers, and they showed how film can connect people globally,” Kapoor added.
Kapoor made a point of recognising the more than 700 people working behind the scenes, from editors and costume designers to caterers and makeup artists. “This show employs so many people in Los Angeles and supports the film community. Katy and I are honoured to work with the Academy and Conan to produce a show that means so much to people everywhere,” he said.
As for the 99th Oscars, Kapoor remained coy about Conan’s return. “It is the day after the Oscars, and I don’t think Conan is taking anyone’s calls,” he said. “We have loved working with him these past two years and it has been a truly lovely collaboration.”
