The Pacing of Prestige: How the 98th Oscars Aim for Speed

The 98th Academy Awards are prioritizing speed and efficiency, with a goal of keeping the broadcast under three and a half hours. CEO Bill Kramer has described the show as a “puzzle” that the team has been working on for months to ensure a dynamic experience. By refining the show’s flow and eliminating unnecessary segments, the Academy hopes to avoid the “paint drying” feeling of past ceremonies.
Lynette Howell Taylor, the first-year Academy President, emphasizes that the show must be “emotionally connecting” while maintaining its prestige. Her leadership has led to earlier production cycles and a more streamlined approach to the live broadcast on March 15. The 98th Oscars are designed to capitalize on the ratings momentum seen in 2024 and 2025, which reached nearly 20 million viewers.
The introduction of the Achievement in Casting award is a major milestone that will be given a dedicated spotlight. While adding a new category is a challenge for the show’s runtime, producers have optimized other segments to compensate. This includes a more focused approach to the In Memoriam section, which will honor legends like Robert Redford and Diane Keaton.
Viewership among younger audiences has seen a significant increase recently, largely due to mobile accessibility and streaming options like Hulu. The Academy is continuing this trend by ensuring the 98th show is “Academy appropriate” yet highly shareable on social media platforms. This focus on digital reach is a key part of the organization’s strategy for future growth.
The Academy’s long-term plan involves a 2029 move to YouTube, a move that CEO Bill Kramer says is about broadening their global reach. This transition will turn the Oscars into a year-round digital resource, featuring scientific awards and museum programming. By digitizing their archives through Google Arts and Culture, the Academy is preparing for a global, digital-first century of cinema.