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KPop Demon Hunters' uplifting anthem "Golden" has won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, with the Netflix film taking the Oscars for both its nominated categories.

However, while Kpop Demon Hunters' directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans were able to deliver heartfelt acceptance speeches for Best Animated Feature Film, the songwriters of "Golden" were conspicuously cut off when their own moment came.

SEE ALSO: 'Kpop Demon Hunters' director delivers emotional Oscars speech about representation

"Growing up, you know, people made fun of me for liking K-pop," said a tearful EJAE, still wearing the outfit she had performed "Golden" in earlier in the night. "But now everyone's singing our song, and all the Korean lyrics. I'm so proud. And I realise the song, this award is not about success, it's about resilience. And I'm just so grateful to our team."

Alongside EJAE, the Oscar also went to fellow songwriters Mark Sonnenblick, Joong Gyu Kwak, Yu Han Lee, Hee Dong Nam, Jeong Hoon Seo, and Teddy Park. Unfortunately, the Oscars didn't give them the opportunity to speak as well. Though Lee stepped up to the microphone after EJAE and began reading a prepared speech, he was abruptly cut off by loud music, signaling to the group to get off the stage. They briefly attempted to continue, pleading with the production via gestures, but were not permitted to do so.

The decision to play off the songwriters was met with ridicule online, with some noting that EJAE's statement had been short and that other winners were given more time. The Oscars ceremony had also dedicated significant time to various skits earlier in the evening, including a lengthy bit featuring the cast of Bridesmaids reading notes ostensibly from the audience.

As such, many on social media felt that cutting off KPop Demon Hunters' acceptance speech was a gross misallocation of time.

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KPop Demon Hunters has racked up a slew of wins across ceremonies such as the Critics' Choice Awards and Golden Globes, as well as several for "Golden" specifically.

Mashable’s covering all things Oscars 2026, from Academy Awards live updates to red carpet style and the wildest moments from the show. Check back at Mashable.com throughout the night for winners announcements and more.

Everyone is doing post-credits scenes now: Marvel, DC, even the Oscars.

The 98th Academy Awards concluded not with One Battle After Another's Best Picture win, but rather with a post-credits scene teasing the future of the ceremony, which moves from ABC to YouTube starting in 2029.

SEE ALSO: 2026 Oscar winners: Updating live

The sketch parodies the death of One Battle After Another's Colonel Lockjaw (Academy Award winner Sean Penn), who is gassed by the white supremacist Christmas Adventurers Club for hiding his interracial relationship with Perfidia Beverly Hills (Teyana Taylor) and their child Willa (Chase Infiniti).

In the sketch, a nervous Conan O'Brien fills in for Lockjaw. Fresh off his hosting gig, he meets with his comedy mentor Jim Downey (Saturday Night Live). Downey declares that O'Brien did such a good job, he's been declared "Oscar Host For Life."

That title comes with a fancy new office and a deadly reveal. Like Lockjaw, O'Brien has been locked in. It's not long before he's been fatally gassed and sent to the crematorium. At the end of the Oscars, it's especially dark.

It gets even darker. After O'Brien's demise, the plaque on his "Host For Life" office gets swapped out for that of the next host: YouTuber MrBeast.

Don't worry, the plaque switch doesn't mean MrBeast is actually hosting the Oscars for life (or even next year). Instead, it's poking fun at the Oscars' imminent switch to YouTube, as well as the broadcast's attempts to stay relevant for younger viewers. O'Brien jokingly suggested some solutions throughout the night, including saying "hostmaxxing" and "6-7" while a Subway Surfers game was played alongside him.

Today's Connections: Sports Edition is easy for people who like the Yankees.

As we've shared in previous hints stories, this is a version of the popular New York Times word game that seeks to test the knowledge of sports fans.

Like the original Connections, the game is all about finding the "common threads between words." And just like Wordle, Connections resets after midnight and each new set of words gets trickier and trickier — so we've served up some hints and tips to get you over the hurdle.

If you just want to be told today's puzzle, you can jump to the end of this article for the latest Connections solution. But if you'd rather solve it yourself, keep reading for some clues, tips, and strategies to assist you.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable What is Connections: Sports Edition?

The NYT's latest daily word game has launched in association with The Athletic, the New York Times property that provides the publication's sports coverage. Connections can be played on both web browsers and mobile devices and require players to group four words that share something in common.

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Each puzzle features 16 words and each grouping of words is split into four categories. These sets could comprise of anything from book titles, software, country names, etc. Even though multiple words will seem like they fit together, there's only one correct answer.

If a player gets all four words in a set correct, those words are removed from the board. Guess wrong and it counts as a mistake — players get up to four mistakes until the game ends.

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Players can also rearrange and shuffle the board to make spotting connections easier. Additionally, each group is color-coded with yellow being the easiest, followed by green, blue, and purple. Like Wordle, you can share the results with your friends on social media.

SEE ALSO: Wordle-obsessed? These are the best word games to play IRL. Here's a hint for today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Want a hint about the categories without being told the categories? Then give these a try:

• Yellow: Spreading the wealth

• Green: Ways to play Fantasy

• Blue: Representing the navy blue pinstripes

• Purple: QBs

Here are today's Connections: Sports Edition categories

Need a little extra help? Today's connections fall into the following categories:

• Yellow: Pass

• Green: Descriptors for Fantasy Leagues

• Blue: New York Yankees

• Purple: First Names of NFL Starting QBs

Looking for Wordle today? Here's the answer to today's Wordle.

Ready for the answers? This is your last chance to turn back and solve today's puzzle before we reveal the solutions.

Drumroll, please!

The solution to today's Connections: Sports Edition #539 is...

What is the answer to Connections: Sports Edition today?

• Pass - ASSIST, DISH, DISTRIBUTE, GIVE

• Descriptors for Fantasy Leagues - DYNASTY, KEEPER, REDRAFT, ROTISSERIE

• New York Yankees - FRIED, GIL, JUDGE, RICE

• First Names of NFL Starting QBs - BAKER, DRAKE, JORDAN, LAMAR

Don't feel down if you didn't manage to guess it this time. There will be new sports Connections for you to stretch your brain with tomorrow, and we'll be back again to guide you with more helpful hints.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Connections.

Timothée Chalamet is now a four-time Best Actor loser at the Academy Awards, adding another near-miss to his growing collection after failing to take home the trophy for his role as Marty Mauser in Josh Safdie's Marty Supreme.

Marty Supreme, with nine nominations, did not take home any Oscars.

The competition was stiff, but Michael B. Jordan's electric dual performance in Sinners took home the award.

For a very vocal corner of the internet, the loss was cause for celebration.

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Chalamet has been in the crosshairs lately, largely thanks to comments he made in an interview with Matthew McConaughey, in which he dismissed ballet and opera as arts "no one cares about." The full context of the remarks is more nuanced than the viral clip, but the backlash wasn't really about ballet anyway.

It was the breaking point after years of Chalamet oversaturation, some say, driven by back-to-back blockbuster press cycles for A Complete Unknown and Marty Supreme, leaving large swaths of the internet completely exhausted by his existence. As a reminder, Dune: Part Three is slated to release in December.

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The show itself was also not kind to Timmy over his ballet and opera comments, and host Conan O'Brien made it known.

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But it's surely not Chalamet's last Best Actor nomination. In fact, the internet should prepare to see more of Timmy next awards season after Dune 3 hits theaters.

Mashable covered all things Oscars 2026, from Academy Awards live updates and winners announcements to red carpet style and the wildest moments from the show.

In the end, it was always One Battle After Another. Following its dominant awards season, One Battle After Another took home Best Picture at the 2026 Oscars.

Javier Bardem got straight to the point at the 98th Academy Awards.

Before presenting the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, Javier Bardem uttered six words: "No to war and free Palestine."

SEE ALSO: Oscars 2026 live updates: Paul Thomas Anderson wins Best Director, awkward "Golden" moment

It was the most overtly political statement made at this Oscars ceremony so far, one that began on the red carpet for Bardem.

Bardem is sporting two notable pins: A large panel with bloody text reading "No a la guerra" (Spanish for "no to war"), and a circular pin reading "Palestine," along with the image of young boy, Handala, a character created in 1969 by cartoonist Naji al-Ali who has become a symbol of Palestinian resistance.

On the red carpet, Bardem told the Associated Press that the "No a la guerra" pin is the same one he wore to the Oscars in 2003 to protest "the illegal Iraq war."

"[The Oscars] is a great opportunity to say things like 'no to war, no to this illegal war that [is] creating so many deaths,'" he said.

KPop Demon Hunters' HUNTR/X showed the world how it's done, done, done with their Oscars performance of Academy Award-winning hit "Golden."

SEE ALSO: Oscars 2026 live updates: See every major moment

EJAE, Audrey Nuna, and Rei Ami — who provide the singing voices of HUNTR/X members Rumi (voiced by Arden Cho), Mira (voiced by May Hong), and Zoey (voiced by Ji-young Yoo) — took to the Oscars stage in commanding fashion. The performance recreated KPop Demon Hunters' prologue onstage before jumping into a high-energy concert filled with spinning golden flags and those killer high notes.

Plus, HUNTR/X had a little help from the audience, who were holding light sticks that filled the Dolby Theater with — what else? — golden light. While the Oscars performance tragically cut a good chunk of "Golden," at least it gave us Leonardo DiCaprio with a light stick, right?

The "Golden" performance is further proof of HUNTR/X's world domination. "Golden" hit number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making HUNTR/X the first K-pop girl group to achieve the feat. The song also took home the Grammy for Best Song Written for Visual Media and picked up four additional nominations, including Song of the Year. 

Earlier in the evening, KPop Demon Hunters won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature. "Golden" also dominated this awards season, winning the Critics' Choice Award, Golden Globe for Best Original Song, and the Oscar for Best Original Song.

Before the envelopes are opened and the speeches begin, the Oscars deliver another kind of spectacle: the red carpet.

The 2026 Oscars brought a wave of bold fashion moments to Hollywood’s biggest night, with nominees and presenters arriving in everything from dramatic couture gowns to sleek, modern tailoring. The Oscars red carpet has long been one of fashion's most closely watched stages — a place where designers debut statement looks, and stars define their awards-season style.

SEE ALSO: Oscars 2026 live updates: See every major moment

This year was no exception.

From striking silhouettes to shimmering embellishments and unexpected color choices, several celebrities immediately stood out the moment they stepped in front of the cameras.

Here are some of the best-dressed stars at the 2026 Oscars.

KPop Demon Hunters trio deliver three striking looks Credit: Frazer Harrison/WireImage via Getty Images

May Hong, Arden Cho, and Ji-young Yoo — the speaking voices behind the fictional girl group Huntr/x in KPop Demon Hunters — each delivered a distinct red carpet moment at the Oscars.

Hong leaned into gothic glamour in a sheer black ruffled gown paired with a sharp pixie cut and cascading earrings, while Yoo brought classic elegance in a strapless two-tone ballgown with a pale blue bodice and dramatic navy skirt cinched by a sweeping black bow. Cho opted for full theatrical flair in a black lace mermaid gown from Korean designer Miss Sohee, accented by oversized sculptural green sleeves embroidered with delicate florals, creating an eye-catching fashion statement reminiscent of a traditional Korean hanbok.

Together, the trio's looks struck a balance between old-Hollywood glamour and bold, modern red carpet drama.

The voices of the Saja Boys bring boy-band polish Credit: Arturo Holmes/Getty Images

Danny Chung, Neckwav, Andrew Choi, Kevin Woo, and SamUIL Lee — the singing voices behind the fictional K-pop group Saja Boys in KPop Demon Hunters — brought a sleek, boy-band edge to the Oscars red carpet. The group leaned into sharply tailored suits and modern black-tie styling, each member putting his own spin on classic formalwear while maintaining a cohesive group look. The effect felt fitting for a fictional K-pop act making a real-world appearance: polished, coordinated, and undeniably stage-ready.

Chase Infiniti's lavender dreams Credit: John Shearer/WireImage

One Battle After Another's Chase Infiniti brought soft drama to the Oscars red carpet in a custom Louis Vuitton gown in a dreamy lavender hue.

The fitted bodice gave way to cascading tiers of ruffles that spilled into a sweeping train, adding movement and a touch of old-Hollywood romance to the look. Paired with delicate jewelry and long, flowing hair, the ensemble felt elegant, ethereal, and perfectly suited to cap off Infiniti's awards season debut.

Hudson Williams steps onto Hollywood's biggest stage Credit: Arturo Holmes/Getty Images

Heated Rivalry star Hudson Williams kept things sleek and classic on the red carpet in a sharply tailored Balenciaga suit. The monochromatic black-on-black look — complete with a crisp tie and sculptural lapels — leaned into understated elegance while subtle details, like a Bulgari jeweled brooch and polished accessories, added just enough edge. It's a reminder that sometimes the most striking red carpet looks are also the simplest.

McKenna Grace's pink, satin princess moment Credit: Savion Washington/Penske Media via Getty Images

McKenna Grace brought full fairytale glamour to the Oscars red carpet in a sweeping pink satin ballgown. The structured bodice and voluminous skirt created a classic princess silhouette, while matching satin opera sleeves and delicate diamond jewelry added a touch of old-Hollywood elegance.

A bold color for a Best Actress nominee Credit: Lexie Moreland/WWD via Getty Images

Best Actress nominee Renate Reinsve turned heads on the red carpet in a striking strapless red gown that embraced clean, minimalist glamour. The sleek silhouette featured a dramatic thigh-high slit and an elegant train that trailed behind her as she walked, while matching red heels and a classic red lip completed the monochromatic look. Effortlessly confident and timeless, Reinsve's style is as indelible as her performance in Sentimental Value.

A gothic, embroidered red carpet moment for Odessa A'zion

Credit: Lexie Moreland/WWD via Getty Images

Marty Supreme star Odessa A'zion brought a moody, fashion-forward edge to the red carpet in a black embroidered look layered with texture and sparkle. The ensemble paired a plunging velvet dress with delicate floral embellishments and a dramatic embellished jacket, creating a silhouette that felt both romantic and rebellious. Styled with layered jewelry and tousled curls, the look leaned into dark glamour while still feeling effortlessly cool and bohemian.

Huntr/x's "Golden" girls Credit: Gilbert Flores/Penske Media via Getty Images

"Golden" girls Audrey Nuna, EJAE, and Rei Ami each brought their own dramatic flair to the Oscars red carpet.

Rei Ami embraced high-fashion drama in a sculptural black look with ornate gold embroidery and a sweeping train, while EJAE shimmered in a strapless gold sequined gown accented with delicate black floral appliqués and fringe detailing. Audrey Nuna delivered one of the night’s most theatrical silhouettes in a voluminous black gown topped with cascading gold embellishments that glittered under the lights and camera flashes.

Together, the trio turned the carpet into a showcase of bold textures, striking silhouettes, and unapologetic star power. This is how it's done.

Jessie Buckley's colorblocking and casual elegance Credit: Gilbert Flores/Penske Media via Getty Images

Best Actress favorite Jessie Buckley embraced bold color on the Oscars red carpet in a striking two-tone gown that paired a dramatic red off-the-shoulder satin bodice with a flowing blush pink skirt. The structured top added sculptural drama, while the soft, pleated skirt brought movement and balance to the look.

Styled with delicate jewelry and a classic red lip, Buckley’s ensemble felt both playful and polished — a standout moment for one of the night's leading contenders.

Elle Fanning's ethereal gown, inspired by wisteria Credit: Frazer Harrison/WireImage

Elle Fanning brought dreamy elegance in a strapless Givenchy gown embroidered with delicate wisteria-petal motifs that cascaded across the bodice and the airy tulle skirt. The soft, fairytale silhouette was paired with a striking piece of history: a Chanel diamond necklace dating back to 1903, which added a touch of vintage glamour. Romantic and quietly magical, Fanning's look is fit for a winning moment.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. Emma Stone's classic silver sparkle Credit: Mike Coppola/Getty Images

Best Actress nominee Emma Stone embraced understated glamour in a sleek silver sequined gown that shimmered with every camera flash. The form-fitting silhouette, empire waist, and delicate cap sleeves gave the look a timeless elegance, while the soft, reflective fabric added just enough drama. Paired with a short, softly styled bob and minimal jewelry, the ensemble felt polished, modern, and, given the plot of Bugonia, kind of celestial.

Teyana Taylor's full feathered drama Credit: Mike Coppola/Getty Images

One Battle After Another's Teyana Taylor delivered one of the night's boldest fashion moments in a striking black-and-white feathered gown that trailed dramatically behind her.

The look paired a sheer, sparkling bodice with sweeping layers of feathers, creating a sculptural and sexy, high-impact silhouette. Finished with statement diamond jewelry and a sharp pixie cut, Taylor's ensemble leaned fully into red carpet theatrics, and the result was impossible to miss.

Timothée Chalamet's sleek all-white statement Credit: ANGELA WEISS / AFP via Getty Images

Timothée Chalamet brought his signature red carpet swagger to the Oscars in a sharply tailored all-white suit. The double-breasted look leaned into clean, minimalist lines, while dark sunglasses and stacked rings added a touch of rock-star edge. Paired with crisp white boots and a subtle brooch detail, the ensemble is proof that Chalamet continues to treat the red carpet like his personal runway.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. Michael B. Jordan's sharp tailoring with a subtle edge Credit: Mike Coppola/Getty Images

Best Actor nominee Michael B. Jordan brought polished sophistication in a sleek black suit with a structured, high-collar silhouette. The minimalist look kept the focus on sharp tailoring and clean lines, while a subtle chain detail at the waist added just the right amount of personality.

Paired with glossy patent shoes and understated accessories, Jordan's ensemble reinforced the idea that classic black-tie style never goes out of fashion.

Mashable’s covering all things Oscars 2026, from Academy Awards live updates to red carpet style and the wildest moments from the show. Check back at Mashable.com throughout the night for winners announcements and more.

The 2026 Oscars just wrapped up — and you can catch up on all of the winners, see how many Oscars Sinners won tonight, and revisit the wildest moments from the ceremony. And if you want to relive Oscar night, well, you can just read this live blog.

The biggest night in Hollywood is here, and we're following it all live.

The 2026 Oscars have officially arrived, bringing the film industry's awards season marathon to its glittering finale. After months of campaigns, red carpets, heated debates, and a seemingly endless stream of precursor awards, the winners of the 97th Academy Awards will finally be revealed tonight.

As always, the Oscars promise a little bit of everything: emotional speeches, surprise wins, viral moments, and at least one bit that will immediately become a meme. The ceremony is Hollywood's most visible celebration of filmmaking, but it's also become something of a real-time internet event, where reactions unfold just as quickly on social media as they do inside the Dolby Theatre.

Throughout the night, we'll be tracking the biggest developments as they happen. That means updates on the major category winners, standout acceptance speeches, and the kinds of unpredictable moments that tend to dominate timelines before the show is even over. And at this year's Oscars, there's plenty to watch.

One of the biggest storylines heading into the ceremony is Sinners, which leads this year’s nominations — a sign of just how strongly the film resonated with Academy voters across multiple branches. Ryan Coogler's film will face off against Paul Thomas Anderson's One Battle After Another in the race for Best Picture, setting up one of the night's most closely watched showdowns.

Meanwhile, the Best Actor race is widely considered one of the ceremony's biggest question marks, with no clear frontrunner. The category features a stacked lineup of nominees, including Timothée Chalamet (Marty Supreme), Michael B. Jordan (Sinners), Leonardo DiCaprio (One Battle After Another), Ethan Hawke (Blue Moon), and Wagner Moura (The Secret Agent).

We'll also be watching the internet’s reaction in real time. Because if there’s one thing Oscars night consistently delivers, it’s discourse: debates about snubs and surprises, instant reactions to acceptance speeches, and the occasional onstage moment that completely takes over the cultural conversation.

Think of this page as your running guide to the night. The show may only last a few hours. The reactions tend to last much longer.

Stay with us as the night unfolds.

In what is sure to be one of the most surprising moments of the 2026 Oscars, two films tied for the Academy Award for Best Live Action Short: The Singers and Two People Exchanging Saliva.

As surprising as the moment was, it's not the first time the Oscars have seen a tie. In fact, it has happened six times before.

SEE ALSO: Wildest moments from Oscars 2026

The first tie occurred at the 5th Academy Awards in 1932, when Fredric March and Wallace Beery won for their performances in Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and The Champ, respectively. March actually received one more vote than Beery. However, due to rules stating that anyone who came within three votes of the winner would also receive the award, both actors took home the trophy. The rules have since been changed so that only an exact tie will count. That gives you an idea of just how rare the next ties were.

In 1949, at the 22nd Academy Awards, documentary shorts A Chance to Live and So Much for So Little tied for Best Documentary (Short Subject).

At the 41st Academy Awards in 1968, Katharine Hepburn (The Lion in Winter) and Barbra Streisand (Funny Girl) tied for Best Actress for their work.

Documentaries Artie Shaw: Time Is All You've Got and Down and Out in America tied for Best Documentary at the 59th Oscars in 1986.

The Singers and Two People Exchanging Saliva aren't the first Best Live Action Shorts to tie. Back in 1994, Franz Kafka's It's a Wonderful Life and Trevor both won the Oscar.

The last tie before 2026 was in 2012, at the 85th Academy Awards, when Skyfall and Zero Dark Thirty took home the Oscar for Best Sound Editing.

With The Singers and Two People Exchanging Saliva join these films in the Oscar Tie club, which is rare enough that "you just ruined 22 million Oscar pools," host Conan O'Brien joked.

Mashable’s covering all things Oscars 2026, from Academy Awards live updates to red carpet style and the wildest moments from the show. Check back at Mashable.com throughout the night for winners announcements and more.

UPDATE: Mar. 16, 2026, 9:57 a.m. EDT An earlier version of this article incorrectly identified "The Singers" as "The Swimmers."

KPop Demon Hunters has won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film at the 2026 Oscars, surprising everyone who hasn't been anywhere near the internet over the past year. The Netflix film has dominated music charts and awards shows since its release last June, now adding an Oscar to its list of accolades.

Director Maggie Kang accepted KPop Demon Hunters' first Oscar alongside fellow director Chris Appelhans and producer Michelle L.M. Wong, delivering an emotional speech about representation.

"To all the fans who got us here and for all of those who look like me, I am so sorry that it took us so long to see us in a movie like this," said Kang. "But it is here, and that means that the next generations don't have to go longing. This is for Korea and for Koreans everywhere."

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Appelhans also took a moment to encourage emerging artists to create art that is true to themselves, stating that they will find an audience for it.

"I just want to take a moment to say to all the young filmmakers, artists, musicians in all corners of the globe: tell your story, sing in your voice," Appelhans said. "I promise you the world is waiting."

Adding a very cute touch to the proceedings, the Oscars also displayed an image of KPop Demon Hunters' HUNTR/X members Rumi, Mira, and Zoey accepting the trophy.

Credit: Patrick T. Fallon / AFP via Getty Images

KPop Demon Hunters has been unstoppable this awards season, picking up Best Animated Feature at the Critics' Choice Awards and Golden Globes, as well as sweeping the Annie Awards, which recognise the best in animated film and TV. Its smash hit song "Golden" has been picking up trophies left, right, and centre, taking home the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media. "Golden" also took home the Academy Award for Best Music (Original Song), winning both of KPop Demon Hunters' two Oscar nominations.

If there’s anything last year’s Qantas data breach has taught us, it’s that your online information isn’t as secure as you think it is. While you may think you’ve secured your digital footprint by using ‘strong’ passwords or switching to incognito mode, there’s a world of online trackers and threats waiting for one slip-up to weasel their way onto your devices. And unfortunately, slip-ups do happen from time to time.

Before you purchase with your card details or enter your shipping address, we at PCMag have a couple of tips to make sure your data is secure while browsing online:

Regularly Change Your Passwords

Though this seems pretty obvious from the outset, remembering to regularly change your passwords is harder than you think—especially when you’re one to forget easily. Yet, the first and best way to maintain your security is to switch up your credentials every few months. If you often struggle thinking of a strong password, you can always rely on Bitdefender’s Password Manager to store or generate a password mixed with letters, numbers, and symbols. Your online security will be stronger than ever.

Be Wary of Suspicious Links and Attachments

Using phishing emails or links to infect your devices is a hackers’ favourite way to get your personal details. So, the last thing you want to do when a dubious email or link makes its way into your inbox or messages is click it. However, if you do, make sure you don’t enter in any personal or banking details. If you’re unsure about any links or texts you’ve been sent, Bitdefender’s Scamio and Email Protection software will scan your online activity and inbox for any devious threats lurking beneath the surface. You’ll be fully aware of any threats to your information in no time.

Trust in Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

There’s no such thing as being “overly secure,” and setting up two-factor authentication (2FA) on your accounts is a great example. A security method meant to shield your accounts from phishing or hackers, 2FA pairs your password with an additional layer of identity verification—ranging from PIN codes and personal questions to security tokens and smart keys. Should any break-ins or data breaches occur, you’ll be thankful this extra layer of protection will keep your information protected.

Keep Your Devices Updated

We’ve all been frustrated by a random system update. However, updating your devices with the latest software protects your tech from vulnerabilities hackers often exploit. Though you might hesitate to install a major operating system update (or simply don’t have the time and energy to sit through the update), any weaknesses will be patched up quickly and easily so your system runs smoothly and safely. Not only that, keeping your system, browser, and apps up-to-date also helps extend the life of your devices.

Invest in Antivirus Software

You know what they say: it’s an oldie but a goodie. Investing in robust antivirus software is a surefire way to maintain the security of your personal data. One of our personal favourite Antivirus suites of 2026, Bitdefender Antivirus Plus, keeps your devices protected against the Trojans, ransomware or spyware that try to set up shop on your devices. Yet, if you’d prefer an even higher level of protection, Bitdefender Ultimate Security comes equipped with an unlimited VPN, anti-tracker extension, and comprehensive email and SMS protection. Check out our extensive coverage for more information.

Stay On Top of Your Cyber Security Needs

Hackers and online scammers will stop at nothing to get hold of your personal information, but you don’t need to suffer at the hands of a data breach you can’t prevent. While you can always rely on us here at PCMag to keep you informed on the best security suites on the market, Bitdefender is the next best one-stop-shop for keeping your life confidential—and you can always check out the Bitdefender blog for more online security tips and tricks, too.

After a harrowing, Weapons-style chase to the Dolby Theater, Oscars host Conan O'Brien made it to the stage to deliver a monologue that pokes fun at some of the hottest topics in Hollywood, including AI.

SEE ALSO: Conan O'Brien channels 'Weapons' Aunt Gladys in glorious Oscars cold open

"I am honored to be the last human host of the Academy Awards," O'Brien said to start his monologue. "Next year it's going to be a Waymo in a tux."

O'Brien also threw shade at Timothée Chalamet's recent viral comments about opera and ballet, saying there was increased security at the Oscars due to "concerns about attacks from both the opera and ballet communities."

O'Brien's monologue also gestured towards political unrest, albeit vaguely.

"If I could be serious for just a moment, everyone watching right now around the world is all too aware that these are very chaotic, frightening times. It's at moments like these that I believe that the Oscars are particularly resonant," O'Brien said. "Check it out. Thirty-one countries across six continents are represented this evening, and every film we salute is the product of thousands of people speaking different languages, working hard to make something of beauty. We pay tribute tonight, not just to film, but to the ideals of global artistry, collaboration, patience, resilience, and that rarest of qualities today, optimism."

Things didn't stay too serious for long, though, as O'Brien closed the monologue with a reenactment of what it would look like if he won an Oscar. Spoiler alert: It involves the Pope, Josh Groban, and a falcon carrying his trophy down to him.

Watch O'Brien's full monologue above.

Mashable’s covering all things Oscars 2026, from Academy Awards live updates to red carpet style and the wildest moments from the show. Check back at Mashable.com throughout the night for winners announcements and more. 

I have one question after watching the Sinners cast perform the film's Academy Award-nominated song "I Lied To You" at the Oscars, and that is: Sinners stage musical, when?

SEE ALSO: How many Oscars has 'Sinners' won?

The Oscars performance sweeps viewers up in the film's most breathtaking sequence, when blues singer Sammie "Preacher Boy" Moore (Miles Caton) performs, his music so powerful it transcends space and time. Soon, Sinners' juke joint revelers are joined by performers from the past and present, including DJs, ballerinas, and traditional Chinese opera dancers.

Sinners brought that genre-bending magic right to the Oscars, along with an onstage recreation of the film's juke joint. Caton and Raphael Saadiq performed "I Lied to You" alongside renowned singers and songwriters Eric Gales, Buddy Guy (who also appears in the movie as older Sammie), Brittany Howard, Christone "Kingfish" Ingram, Bobby Rush, Shaboozey, and Alice Smith. Misty Copeland, the first Black woman to be named Principal Dancer at the American Ballet Theater, also took the stage, as did cast members Jayme Lawson and Li Jun Li.

Coming just under an hour into the Oscars telecast, this tribute to the power of music, especially the blues, is already a highlight of the night, earning a well-deserved standing ovation.

Want more Sinners musical goodness? Then check out Guy and Caton's Tiny Desk Concert, where they perform a stripped-down version of "I Lied to You" and "Travelin'."

Mashable’s covering all things Oscars 2026, from Academy Awards live updates to red carpet style and the wildest moments from the show. Check back at Mashable.com throughout the night for winners announcements and more.

Conan O'Brien channeled his inner Aunt Gladys (Academy Award winner Amy Madigan) to kick off the 98th Academy Awards.

SEE ALSO: Wildest moments from Oscars 2026

During a pre-recorded segment, the Oscars host donned the Weapons' villain's iconic reg wig and clownish makeup before getting chased down to the Dolby Theater by a troupe of bloodthirsty kids.

Along the way, he made several pit stops throughout 2025's Oscar-nominated movies. He darted across the race track in F1. He scored a point in a ping pong match against Timothée Chalamet in Marty Supreme. He charged across the stage during Hamnet's poignant climax, rode shotgun with One Battle After Another's Benicio del Toro, and even begged Sinners' Smoke and Stack (Michael B. Jordan) to let him into their juke joint.

Plus, he learned Norwegian just to get dressed down by Stellan Skarsgård in Sentimental Value. O'Brien may have regretted picking up the new language just for a bit, but we appreciate the effort.

Unlike in Weapons, O'Brien's Aunt Gladys actually made it out alive. O'Brien arrived on the Oscars stage totally unscathed (and sadly, wigless).

Mashable’s covering all things Oscars 2026, from Academy Awards live updates to red carpet style and the wildest moments from the show. Check back at Mashable.com throughout the night for winners announcements and more.

The best deals for watching the Oscars live without cable: BEST BUNDLE DEAL Hulu and Disney+ with ads $4.99/month for 3 months (save $8/month) Get Deal BEST long-term deal Hulu with ads annual subscription $119.99/year (save $23.89) Get Deal BEST FOR STUDENTS Hulu Student $1.99/month (save $10/month) Get Deal GET HULU FOR FREE Hulu with ads Free for T-Mobile customers (save $11.99/month) Get Deal BEST LIVE TV STREAMING DEAL YouTube TV Free 21-day trial, then $59.99/month for 2 months (save $46) Get Deal MOST AFFORDABLE LIVE TV STREAMING SERVICE Sling Select $19.99/month Get Deal

It's been another stellar year for cinema, and now it's time to award the films that shone brightest. The 98th Oscars are upon us. On March 15, the Academy will honor the best movies of 2025 on Hollywood's biggest night. Conan O’Brien is set to host the ceremony once again, and many of your favorite winners from years past will present the biggest awards of the night.

We're hoping some of our favorites receive the awards they deserve — One Battler After Another, Sinners, Hamnet, and more — but it's anyone's game. Want to see who takes home the titles of Best Actress, Best Director, Best Picture, and beyond? Here are all the details you need to know to watch the 2026 Academy Awards live with or without cable.

When are the 2026 Oscars?

The 98th Academy Awards will be held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 15, 2026, and will air live at 7 p.m. ET on ABC and Hulu, with the pre-show airing at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Who are this year's Oscar nominees?

Sinners leads this year's Oscars with a record-breaking 16 nominations. Basically, every award it could be nominated for, it is. One Battle After Another follows close behind with 13, while Marty Supreme earned nine, and Hamnet nabbed seven nominations.

Each year, there are just as many snubs as there are surprises, and 2026 is no different. For instance, we were a bit flabbergasted that Wicked: For Good came up totally empty with zero nominations. Our favorite sad boy, Paul Mescal, newcomer Chase Infiniti, and Jesse Plemons were also ignored by the Academy.

See a full list of the 2026 Oscar nominations below in the FAQ section of this story.

Live from Oscars 2026 tonight: Mashable’s covering all things Oscars 2026, from Academy Awards live updates to red carpet style and the wildest moments from the show. Check back at Mashable.com through the night for winners announcements and more.

How to watch the Oscars live without cable in 2026

For those with cable or over-the-air TV, you can tune your TV to your local ABC station or watch online via ABC.com or the ABC app by logging in through your pay TV service provider. No cable access? No worries: For the second year in a row, the awards will stream simultaneously on Hulu for subscribers.

You also have the option of signing up for a live TV cable replacement service to catch the Oscars live. These services essentially act just like cable, giving you live access to a well-rounded channel selection via your internet connection (rather than a cable connection). They're contract-free and often offer trials to test them out. That means you could very well watch the Oscars for free, then cancel before being charged. But we'll leave the details up to you. Here are the best options (and deals) to watch.

Hulu streaming deals

Hulu is one of the most generous (if not the most generous) streamers, offering new and eligible returning subscribers a free 30-day trial. That means you can easily sign up and watch the Oscars for free during that time period. If you don't qualify for the free trial, we've also rounded up a few ways to save some money on your subscription.

Limited-time bundle deal: Save $8/month on three months of Hulu and Disney+ Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu / Disney+ Hulu and Disney+ (with ads) $4.99/month for 3 months (save $8/month) Get Deal

Through March 24, new subscribers can get both Hulu and Disney+ with ads for only $4.99 per month for three months. Typically $12.99 per month for the bundle, you'll save $24 total on a three-month subscription. Only new and returning subscribers can score the deal; current Disney+, ESPN, Hulu, and bundle subscribers are not eligible.

Best Hulu deal for most people: Save 16% on a Hulu (with ads) annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu with ads annual subscription $99.99 per year (save 16%) Get Deal

The best way to cut the cost of a Hulu subscription on any given day is to sign up for an annual plan with ads. You'll have to endure a few interruptions to your content and pay upfront, but it'll save you 16 percent, or just shy of $24, over the course of a year. A yearly subscription costs $119.99 (or $9.99 per month), while an $11.99 monthly plan would add up to $143.88 over a year. If you want to cut ties with ads, the price jumps to $18.99 per month, and there's no annual offer available at this time.

Best for students: Save $10/month with Hulu Student Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu Student $1.99 per month Get Deal

Students can sign up for Hulu for only $1.99 per month and stream the Oscars live. That's more than 80 percent off the usual cost of a Hulu with ads plan. The only requirement is that you can verify your college email address using SheerID.

Best for T-Mobile users: Hulu (with ads) included for select customers Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu with ads Free for T-Mobile customers on Experience Beyond plan (save $11.99/month) Get Deal

Aside from a 30-day free trial, the only other way to get Hulu for free in 2026 is by switching your phone plan to T-Mobile's Experience Beyond plan. Customers on this plan can enjoy Hulu with ads for free, as well as Netflix and Apple TV.

Already on the Experience Beyond plan? Download or open the T-Life app, select Manage > See plans > Manage add-ons, then scroll to the Hulu streaming benefit and click "Continue." Follow the prompts to link an existing account or create a new one.

Live TV streaming deals

If you prefer a cable alternative that gives you access to your local ABC station and hundreds of other live channels, we recommend a few options. And many of them offer free trials and introductory pricing. Here are a couple of options.

Best introductory offer: YouTube TV Opens in a new window Credit: YouTube TV YouTube TV 21-day free trial, then $59.99/mo for your first 2 months (save $46) Get Deal

YouTube TV's base plan includes over 100 live channels, including your local ABC network. You'll also get unlimited DVR space, three simultaneous streams, and up to six individual accounts with personalized recommendations. For a limited time, you can get a 21-day trial to test the waters, which means you can watch the Oscars for free. Then, your first two months will cost just $59.99 per month instead of the usual $82.99 per month.

Most affordable overall: Sling TV Select package (for select areas) Opens in a new window Credit: Sling Sling Select package (select areas only) $19.99/month Get Deal

Sling's a la carte setup and affordable pricing make it a huge competitor in the live TV streaming market. You can pick your package and channels depending on what you actually want to watch. You'll need access to ABC to watch the Oscars live, which is included in Sling's Select package for only $19.99 per month. Unfortunately, since ABC is a local network, it's only available in some local markets. Check whether your local market includes ABC before you pull the trigger — Chicago, Fresno, Houston, Los Angeles, and more are included.

Honorable mention: FuboTV Opens in a new window Credit: Fubo Fubo free 5-day trial, $48.99 for your first month Get Deal

FuboTV offers a 5-day free trial for newbies, letting you watch the Oscars on your local ABC station. You'll get access to over 200 other networks, as well as unlimited cloud DVR, and the ability to watch on up to 10 different screens. After your trial, the cost for your first month is $48.99 ($73.99 per month thereafter).

TL;DR: Live stream the 2026 Oscars for free on 7Plus, RTÉ Player, or ITVX. Access these free streaming platforms from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

Yes, the Oscars are almost here. It’s time for the film industry to come together to congratulate itself. Expect stunning gowns, polite clapping, fake smiles, and chaotic acceptance speeches. The group chat is going to come alive for one night only.

Whether you're interested in the red carpet looks, the musical numbers, the award winners, or the sweet unpredictability of live television, you can watch this special event without spending anything. So clear your schedule and invite your sassiest friends. There's always something from this night that causes a huge stir, and we wouldn't want you to miss out on the drama.

If you want to watch the 2026 Oscars for free from anywhere in the world, we have all the information you need.

What are the Oscars?

The Academy Awards (the Oscars) are the awards for artistic and technical merit in film. The Oscars are widely considered to be the most prestigious awards in the film industry.

When are the 2026 Oscars?

The 98th Academy Awards ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. ET on March 15 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Comedian Conan O'Brien is set to host the show for the second consecutive time in 2026.

How to watch the 2026 Oscars for free

The 2026 Oscars are available to live stream for free on a number of platforms:

• Australia — 7Plus

• Ireland — RTÉ Player

• UK — ITVX

Mashable’s covering all things Oscars 2026, from Academy Awards live updates to red carpet style and the wildest moments from the show. Check back at Mashable.com through the night for winners announcements and more.

These streaming platforms are geo-restricted, but anyone can access for free with a VPN. These handy tools can hide your real IP address (digital location) and connect you to a secure server in another location, meaning you can unblock free streaming sites from anywhere in the world.

Live stream the 2026 Oscars from anywhere in the world by following these simple steps:

1. Subscribe to a streaming-friendly VPN (like ExpressVPN)

2. Download the app to your device of choice (the best VPNs have apps for Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, Linux, and more)

3. Open up the app and connect to a server in a location with access

4. Visit 7Plus, RTÉ Player, or ITVX

5. Live stream the 2026 Oscars for free from anywhere in the world

Opens in a new window Credit: ExpressVPN ExpressVPN (1-Month Plan) $12.99 only at ExpressVPN (with money-back guarantee) Get Deal

The best VPNs for streaming are not free, but leading VPNs do tend to offer free-trial periods or money-back guarantees. By leveraging these offers, you can gain access to free live streams without committing with your cash. This is obviously not a long-term solution, but it does give you time to watch the 2026 Oscars before recovering your investment.

What is the best VPN for the Oscars?

ExpressVPN is the best service for bypassing geo-restrictions to access free live streams, for a number of reasons:

• Servers in 105 countries

• Easy-to-use app available on all major devices including iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, and more

• Strict no-logging policy so your data is always secure

• Fast connection speeds

• Up to 10 simultaneous connections

• 30-day money-back guarantee

A two-year subscription to ExpressVPN is on sale for $68.40 and includes an extra four months for free — 81% off for a limited time. This plan includes a year of free unlimited cloud backup and a generous 30-day money-back guarantee. Alternatively, you can get a one-month plan for just $12.99 (with money-back guarantee).

Watch the 2026 Oscars from anywhere in the world with ExpressVPN.

TL;DR: Score 100TB of Internxt lifetime cloud storage for just $974.97 (MSRP $9,900) before March 31 and never worry about running out of space again.

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100TB of cloud storage might sound like overkill for most of us, but if you’re a photographer juggling client libraries, a video producer managing terabytes of raw footage, a media agency storing creative assets, or a research lab with mountains of data, suddenly it’s not just reasonable — it’s essential.

Internxt makes storing that much data private, easy, and worry-free. And right now, you can get a 100TB Internxt Cloud Storage lifetime subscription for just $974.97 (MSRP $9,900) if you act before March 31.

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Internxt isn’t your average cloud service. It’s open-source, zero-knowledge, and post-quantum encrypted, which means only you can access your files, and hackers don’t stand a chance. You can store, share, and sync files across any device — Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android, or web browser — without sacrificing speed or control. The interface is clean, intuitive, and built for people who need to manage massive amounts of data without wrestling with complex menus. From secure client projects to massive photo archives or research datasets, Internxt lets you keep everything organized, private, and accessible from anywhere.

Plus, it’s built for collaboration at scale. Unlimited devices mean teams can access shared resources without juggling multiple accounts. Post-quantum encryption and GDPR compliance keep your data protected long-term, and updates are included for life. It’s a security and privacy solution that actually makes sense for professionals, not just hobbyists.

If you’re ready to take control of your data, store it safely, and skip subscription fees forever, grab a lifetime subscription to Internxt Cloud Storage for $974.97 until March 31 and enjoy 100TB of encrypted, private, and completely manageable storage for life.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

The Lincoln Navigator, one of the early originals in the full-size luxury SUV category, is entering a new era. Nearly three decades after helping establish the segment alongside the Cadillac Escalade, the 2026 Navigator is showing off a bold new exterior, a capable powertrain, and a tech-forward interior that Lincoln is positioning as a "sanctuary on wheels."

This week's Saturday Night Live cold open sticks to the formula that's been working all season — James Austin Johnson's uncanny Trump impression anchoring a tour through the latest week of governmental chaos. The Cold Open starts with a family stranded at a gas station, forced to make the grim calculation of which kid gets left behind after gas prices blow past $5 a gallon in the wake of the Iran war.

Then the family freezes, and Trump appears with this week's unhinged stream of consciousness. The sketch breaks the fourth wall just enough, with a nod to that night's host, Harry Styles, and a sharp dig at Marcello Hernandez's well-established role as the show's perpetual child actor.

"He's SNL's little chihuahua," Johnson's Trump declares. "That sounds racist, and it is."

Colin Jost's Pete Hegseth also makes an appearance, randomly tumbling out of the back of the family's Chevy Impala wearing shoes several sizes too big — a gift from Trump that he's apparently obsessed with.