Oscars 2026: The stage for the 98th Academy Awards turned lively during rehearsals on Saturday, March 14. With only one day left for the big event, Hollywood stars arrived in casual clothes instead of red-carpet outfits to practise their parts. The theatre was full of energy as actors, presenters and crew members worked on last-minute changes to make sure the show runs perfectly.
Many stars were seen wearing hoodies, T-shirts and sneakers while rehearsing under bright lights. Crew members moved quickly between cues, checking cameras, sound and lighting. Months of planning were being tested as the team prepared for one of the most-watched award shows in the world.
Clips from the rehearsal soon went viral online. Fans loved seeing fun moments, surprise reunions and small hints about what will happen during the live ceremony.
Oscars 2026 rehearsal: Bridesmaids Reunion And Javier Bardem’s Joke Steal The Show
One of the biggest highlights from the rehearsal was the reunion of the Bridesmaids cast. Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Ellie Kemper, Rose Byrne and Melissa McCarthy came together on stage to present an award. The group practised a comedy segment that made everyone laugh and reminded fans of the film’s fun moments.
Wiig was seen fixing camera angles while joking with her co-stars. Melissa McCarthy ended her mock speech with a funny dance before running off stage, making the rehearsal feel more like a comedy show. The moment quickly became one of the most talked-about parts of the practice session.
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Spanish actor Javier Bardem also added humour to the rehearsal. After finishing his lines, he smiled at the producers and joked, “Am I fired?” As per People Magazine, he then winked and said, “I’m going to learn the lines.”
His joke made everyone laugh and helped ease the tension before the big night. It showed that even at the Oscars, there is room for fun during the preparation.
Other presenters also rehearsed their parts. Adrien Brody looked calm and serious, while Kieran Culkin kept his usual playful smile. Mikey Madison, Will Arnett, Bill Pullman, Lewis Pullman and Wagner Moura were also seen practising on stage.
Behind the scenes, the crew stayed busy adjusting hundreds of lights and checking technical details. Co-executive producer Rob Paine compared the busy setup to a CIRCUS, saying the whole show had to be ready in less than three days.
Oscars 2026: Marvel Reunion, Musical Performances And Big Surprises Planned
The rehearsal also gave hints about what fans may see during the live show. A Marvel reunion is expected, with Chris Evans, Robert Downey Jr, and Gwyneth Paltrow likely to appear together. Another special moment may bring back the magic of Moulin Rouge with Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor.
Music will also be a big part of the ceremony. Raphael Saadiq will perform “I Lied to You” from Sinners. Ejae, Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami will perform GOLDEN from K-Pop Demon Hunters. Josh Groban will lead the LA Maestro Choir in a special performance.
The 98th Academy Awards will take place on Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. In India, the ceremony will air early on Monday, March 16. Viewers can watch the show live on JioHotstar, Star Movies, Star Movies Select, and Colors Infinity. In the United States, Oscars 2026 will air on ABC and Hulu, while UK viewers can watch it on ITV1 and ITVX.
