Hollywood’s biggest night delivered emotional speeches, historic wins, and unforgettable moments during the 98th Academy Awards. While millions watched the ceremony broadcast live from the Dolby Theatre, there was much more happening behind the scenes that viewers never saw on television.
From unexpected award ties to backstage celebrations and tight security across Hollywood Boulevard, here are some of the most interesting moments that unfolded away from the cameras.
Tight Security Around Hollywood
Security was noticeably stronger at this year’s Oscars. Authorities across Los Angeles increased protection measures due to rising international tensions, including the ongoing Israel–Iran conflict.
The area around the Dolby Theatre was surrounded by multiple security layers, with visible police patrols, fencing, and SWAT-style vehicles stationed along Hollywood Boulevard.
Guests and media entering nearby locations like the Loews Hollywood Hotel—where press interviews with winners take place—passed through metal detectors and bag checks, while police dogs conducted security sweeps.
Street closures around Ovation Hollywood, the entertainment complex that houses the Dolby Theatre, had been in place for days to accommodate the Oscars’ iconic red carpet and security infrastructure.
Rare Oscars Tie Causes Media Frenzy
One of the most surprising moments of the night occurred when the award for Best Short Action Film ended in a rare tie.
Both The Singers and Two People Exchanging Saliva were announced as winners, marking only the sixth tie in the history of the Academy Awards.
The unexpected result sent reporters rushing to confirm historical records. Academy librarians stationed in the press room were quickly consulted to verify previous ties.
The last time this happened was during the 85th Academy Awards, when Skyfall and Zero Dark Thirty shared the award for Best Sound Editing.
Conan O’Brien’s Surprise Message for Guests
This year’s host, Conan O’Brien, added a humorous personal touch inside the theatre.
Under every seat at the Dolby Theatre, nominees and guests discovered a handwritten note alongside snacks that O’Brien jokingly called the “Conan O’Brien Moderately Happy Meal.”
The message humorously read that the snacks might look simply but would cost “about $85 in any movie theater.” It also encouraged guests to laugh loudly during the show — something the comedian admitted would be good for both the audience’s health and his ego.
K-Pop Songwriters Finish Their Speech Backstage
The Oscars are famous for cutting off speeches that run too long — and that happened again during a historic win.
The song “Golden” from the animated film KPop Demon Hunters won Best Original Song, marking the first time a K-pop song received an Academy Award.
However, the speech by the songwriting team was cut short by the orchestra during the live broadcast.
Backstage, songwriter Mark Sonnenblick took the opportunity to finish his thanks, acknowledging collaborators, animators, and family members who helped bring the project to life.
The team also thanked singers Audrey Nuna and Rei Ami, as well as producer Teddy Park for their contributions.
Director Maggie Kang later expressed pride in representing Korean storytelling on the global stage.
Historic Cinematography Win
Another milestone moment came when Autumn Durald Arkapaw became the first woman ever to win the Academy Award for Best Cinematography for her work on Sinners.
Speaking backstage, Arkapaw reflected on the significance of the moment, saying she hopes young girls who see her win will feel inspired to pursue careers in cinematography.
She also credited many women who supported her throughout the awards season, saying their advocacy helped make the achievement possible.
Amy Madigan Teases Possible Horror Prequel
Best Supporting Actress winner Amy Madigan hinted that fans might see more from the world of the horror film Weapons.
Madigan, who plays the villain Aunt Gladys in the movie, revealed that discussions about a potential prequel have been ongoing with director Zach Cregger.
While nothing has been confirmed, she said she would welcome the opportunity to return to the role.
Hollywood’s Biggest Night — On and Off Camera
The 98th Academy Awards once again proved that the biggest moments in Hollywood often extend far beyond what audiences see on television.
From historic wins and backstage speeches to surprise gestures from the host and heightened security across Hollywood, the 2026 Oscars delivered memorable moments both on stage and behind the scenes.
