2025 Oscars: Big Nominations, Snubs, Performers, and Everything You Need to Know

The 2025 Oscars are almost here, and Hollywood is gearing up for its glitziest night. Conan O'Brien, former late-night talk show host, will take center stage as the host, promising a mix of humor and charm for the ceremony. This year, big names like Demi Moore, Ariana Grande, and Edward Norton are vying for top honors, making the competition as fierce as ever.

When and Where to Watch
The ceremony will air on Sunday at 7 p.m. ET on ABC, starting an hour earlier than usual. For the first time ever, the show will also stream live on Hulu. If you miss it, Hulu has you covered to stream the full event the next day.

First-Timers and Frontrunners
This year is a breakout moment for many first-time nominees. Demi Moore has already bagged a Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award for her role in "The Substance," which is also up for Best Picture. Joining her in the Best Actress category are newcomers Fernanda Torres ("I'm Still Here"), Mikey Madison ("Anora"), and Karla Sofía Gascón ("Emilia Perez"). Cynthia Erivo, a two-time nominee, adds veteran star power with her role in "Wicked."

"Emilia Perez" leads the pack with 13 nominations, including Best Picture, alongside contenders like "The Brutalist," "Nickel Boys," "Conclave," and "Dune Part Two." It’s a buffet of cinematic excellence, but only one will take home the golden statue.

Snubs That Stung
Not everyone’s Oscar dreams came true, though. Angelina Jolie, who played opera legend Maria Callas in "Maria," was shockingly snubbed despite buzz for a third Academy Award nomination. Pamela Anderson’s dazzling turn as a Vegas showgirl in "The Last Showgirl" also failed to make the cut, leaving fans and critics scratching their heads.

Selena Gomez, who delivered her first Spanish-language performance in "Emilia Perez," was another notable omission, despite the film's sweeping nominations. And Denzel Washington, a favorite for his role as Macrinus in "Gladiator II," was completely shut out, along with the film itself.

Star-Studded Presenters
Expect a parade of past winners and nominees gracing the stage to present awards. Emma Stone and Cillian Murphy, last year’s Best Actress and Actor winners, will hand over the trophies to this year’s acting honorees. Robert Downey Jr. and Da'Vine Joy Randolph will present the supporting actor categories. Other big names like Oprah Winfrey, Scarlett Johansson, and Ana de Armas will also take the mic.

Musical Performances with a Twist
In a departure from tradition, this year’s ceremony will shine the spotlight on songwriters instead of live performances of nominated songs. Tracks like "Like a Bird" from "Sing Sing" and "Mi Camino" from "Emilia Perez" are competing for Best Song, but don’t expect to hear them performed. Instead, stars like Lisa from Blackpink, Doja Cat, and Queen Latifah will bring other musical moments to the night. And here’s a treat: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo will team up for a mystery performance from "Wicked." Fingers crossed it’s as magical as it sounds.

The 2025 Oscars are shaping up to be a mix of surprises, celebrations, and maybe a few head-scratchers. So grab your popcorn and get ready for Hollywood’s biggest night. Who will walk away with the golden glory? Only time will tell!