Predictions

• The 98th Academy Awards ceremony takes place Sunday evening with Hollywood's biggest stars competing across major categories, with entertainment experts from ABC News and Variety sharing final predictions on who will take home Oscar gold. • The Dolby Theatre is completing final preparations with the red carpet set to roll out, while ABC's coverage begins at 12:30 p.m., followed by E!'s red carpet broadcast at 1 p.m., with Amelia Dimoldenberg returning as social media ambassador for a third consecutive year. • 'Sinners' has gained unexpected momentum heading into the ceremony after its stars Delroy Lindo and Michael B. Jordan were subjected to a racial slur at the BAFTAs, with the film receiving a record-breaking 16 nominations despite being overshadowed much of awards season by Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another.'

Warner Bros.' 'One Battle After Another' and 'Sinners' are favored to dominate the 2026 Oscars on March 15, positioning the studio for major wins amid a potential $110 billion takeover by Paramount and Skydance. Industry buzz highlights the films' strong precursor awards performance, with 'Sinners' eyed for record-breaking achievements in multiple categories. This comes as Hollywood navigates AI disruptions and layoffs, making Warner Bros.' success a rare bright spot. Post-Oscars, merger outcomes could reshape the studio's future slate.

Kelley Carter, senior entertainment reporter at ESPN's Andscape, previewed her 2026 Oscars predictions on ABC News Live, highlighting frontrunners in key categories. The segment aired as Hollywood gears up for Conan O'Brien's hosting debut this Sunday at the Dolby Theatre. Carter's insights come amid widespread speculation on winners like Warner Bros' contenders. Fans anticipate surprises in best picture and acting races during the live broadcast.