2026 Oscars Limit Best Song Performances to Two Nominees
In a move that's sparking both excitement and debate among film and music fans, the 2026 Academy Awards are set to revive live performances for Best Original Song nominees—but only for two standout tracks. After skipping them entirely in 2025, producers are bringing back the musical moments that have long been a highlight of the Oscars telecast. This decision underscores the evolving format of the ceremony, balancing runtime constraints with the desire to celebrate cinematic music in innovative ways.
Reviving the Tradition with a Twist
The Oscars have a storied history of showcasing original songs live, from iconic moments like 'Shallow' in 2019 to the emotional renditions that often steal the show. However, last year's omission was part of broader efforts to streamline the broadcast, which still overrun its three-and-a-half-hour slot. For 2026, executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, alongside producer Taryn Hurd, announced in a letter to nominees that live performances will spotlight “Golden” from Netflix's KPop Demon Hunters and “I Lied to You” from the critically acclaimed Sinners.
These selections weren't arbitrary. As the producers noted, both songs have been pivotal in their films' global success. KPop Demon Hunters, a high-energy animated feature blending K-pop flair with supernatural thrills, has captured international audiences, much like the global K-pop wave led by acts such as BTS and Blackpink. “Golden” serves as the film's anthem, driving its viral marketing and soundtrack streams. Similarly, Sinners, a gritty drama exploring redemption and betrayal, uses “I Lied to You” to underscore its emotional core, contributing to its box-office dominance and record-breaking 16 Oscar nominations—the most in the ceremony's history.
Why Only Two? Balancing Time and Storytelling
The choice to limit live acts stems from practical considerations. The 2026 Oscars introduce a new 24th category for Best Casting, adding to an already packed agenda. With the show aiming for a “fast-paced, entertaining, and cohesive” flow, producers cited the limited runtime as a key factor. Last year's telecast, hosted by Conan O’Brien, clocked in 20 minutes over schedule, partly due to extended segments like O’Brien’s humorous opener.
Yet, the Academy emphasizes equity: All five Best Original Song nominees will be honored. The remaining trio—“Train Dreams” by Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner from the introspective Train Dreams, Diane Warren’s heartfelt “Dear Me” from her documentary Diane Warren: Relentless, and Nicholas Pike’s “Sweet Dreams of Joy” from the musical biopic Viva Verdi!—will receive custom-produced segments. These will include film clips, behind-the-scenes insights, and social media amplification, ensuring each song's narrative impact is highlighted without extending the live broadcast.
This hybrid approach reflects a modern take on awards shows, where digital engagement complements traditional TV. In an era of short attention spans and streaming dominance, such strategies could boost viewership on ABC and Hulu, where the ceremony airs live from the Dolby Theatre on March 15 at 4 p.m. PT.
The Nominees Spotlight: Cultural Powerhouses
Sinners isn't just leading nominations; it's a cultural phenomenon. Directed by a visionary auteur (whose name buzzes in indie circles), the film weaves music into its fabric, making “I Lied to You” a haunting ballad that's topped charts and inspired fan covers worldwide. Its 16 nods span acting, directing, and technical categories, positioning it as the one to beat.
On the flip side, KPop Demon Hunters represents animation's bold evolution. This Netflix original fuses demon-slaying action with infectious pop hooks, appealing to Gen Z and international markets. “Golden” has amassed billions of streams, proving music's role in bridging film and pop culture. Selecting these for live performance aligns with the Oscars' goal to tap into global resonance, as producers teased “segments designed to honor how music helped these stories resonate worldwide.”
The other nominees bring diversity to the category. Nick Cave's brooding collaboration on “Train Dreams” echoes the Australian musician's cinematic scores, like those for The Proposition. Diane Warren, a perennial nominee, pours personal reflection into “Dear Me,” tying into her Relentless documentary's themes of perseverance. And “Sweet Dreams of Joy” celebrates Giuseppe Verdi's legacy in Viva Verdi!, blending opera with contemporary flair.
O’Brien’s Second Act: Hosting Amid Change
Conan O’Brien returns as host, fresh off last year's mixed reviews for his witty but time-consuming bits. Fans hope for a tighter ship this time, with musical performances adding levity. O’Brien’s affinity for music—evident in his podcast and late-night legacy—could elevate these moments, perhaps with surprise cameos or thematic ties to the nominees.
Implications for the Industry and Fans
This format shift signals broader trends in Hollywood. As films like Sinners and KPop Demon Hunters demonstrate, original songs aren't just add-ons; they're cultural engines driving ticket sales and streaming numbers. By prioritizing high-impact tracks for live slots, the Oscars acknowledge music's evolving role in a fragmented media landscape.
Critics might decry the limitation as snubbing lesser-known gems, but the custom segments offer visibility in a TikTok-driven world. For songwriters, it's a reminder that Oscar contention now demands viral potential alongside artistic merit. Diane Warren, with her 14 prior nominations, knows this well—her “Dear Me” could still surprise if its emotional depth sways voters.
As nominations season heats up, all eyes are on March 15. Will “Golden” dazzle with K-pop choreography? Can “I Lied to You” deliver a tear-jerking ballad? And how will the full lineup of 16 for Sinners play out? The 2026 Oscars promise a blend of tradition and innovation, reminding us why the Academy remains entertainment's pinnacle.
In related news, the Grammys just wrapped with Bruno Mars stealing the spotlight, hinting at cross-pollination between awards circuits. Stay tuned to Everythiiing.com for live updates and analysis as Hollywood's biggest night approaches.