The 2026 Oscars ceremony proved once again why it remains the most glittering night in global entertainment, with a staggering 36,000 photographs flooding in from Hollywood's premier event. Our expert picture editors have meticulously curated this overwhelming collection down to the fifteen most captivating images that truly encapsulate the magic, emotion, and sheer spectacle of the evening.
A Night of Historic Triumphs and Star-Studded Celebrations
The 98th Academy Awards will be remembered for groundbreaking achievements and unforgettable moments. Jessie Buckley carved her name into the history books by becoming the first Irish woman ever to secure the coveted Best Actress Oscar, a landmark victory for European cinema. Her raw emotion was palpable as she received the golden statuette, a moment of pure cinematic triumph.
Meanwhile, Michael B. Jordan claimed the Best Actor honour for his powerful performance in the critically acclaimed drama Sinners, edging out strong competition from fellow nominee Timothée Chalamet. The actor's beaming smile as he had his award engraved post-ceremony captured a career-defining achievement.
From Red Carpet Glamour to Legendary After-Parties
Once the official ceremony concluded, the celebrations migrated to Hollywood's most exclusive venues. The legendary Vanity Fair Oscar Party played host to a dazzling array of A-list talent, including style icon Kim Kardashian debuting a striking new look, pop superstar Dua Lipa, and the ever-glamorous Rita Ora, all commanding attention on the iconic red carpet.
Simultaneously, across West Hollywood, Sir Elton John's prestigious 34th Annual Academy Awards Viewing Party for his AIDS Foundation drew its own constellation of stars. Notable arrivals included Brooklyn Beckham with his wife, actress Nicola Peltz, alongside television personality Maura Higgins and entertainment legend Sharon Osbourne.
The Fifteen Definitive Images of Oscars 2026
Our curated selection presents the photographs that tell the complete story of this remarkable night:
- Michael's Moment: Michael B. Jordan radiates pure joy while having his Best Actor statuette engraved after his win for Sinners.
- Love at First Sight: Jessie Buckley gazes with profound affection at her historic Best Actress Oscar, a look every winner would recognise.
- A Joyful Embrace: The unbridled happiness on Buckley's face is clear as she shares a celebratory hug with fellow actor Paul Mescal.
- Acting Royalty Converges: A candid, off-camera moment captures Michael B. Jordan and Leonardo DiCaprio exchanging a respectful handshake.
- Co-Star Congratulation: Buckley shares a final, heartfelt hug with her Hamnet co-star, young actor Jacobi Jupe.
- Double Celebration: Teyana Taylor and Cassandra Kulukundis share a moment, with Kulukundis clutching her inaugural casting Oscar for One Battle After Another in one hand and a water bottle in the other.
- Backstage Besties: Hollywood icons Gwyneth Paltrow and Demi Moore pose together backstage, a picture of enduring star power.
- Nicole's Pose: Inside the auditorium, Nicole Kidman strikes an elegant pose for the assembled photographers.
- Zendaya's Disbelief: Zendaya's reaction captures the overwhelming surprise and delight of the Oscars experience.
- The Must-See Gown: Gwyneth Paltrow commands attention in a daring white gown featuring dramatic sheer slits on both sides, a definitive red carpet look.
- Elton's Esteemed Guests: Brooklyn Beckham and Nicola Peltz arrive at Sir Elton John's prestigious viewing party.
- Rita's Impression: Rita Ora makes a stunning impression on the red carpet at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party.
- Kim's Transformation: Kim Kardashian unveils a bold and striking new aesthetic for the evening's festivities.
- Goldblum's Grand Entrance: Jeff Goldblum and his wife, Canadian dancer Emilie Livingston, ensure all eyes are on them with their impeccably coordinated and attention-grabbing attire.
- Rock Legend Presence: British rock icon Mick Jagger concludes our selection, attending the Vanity Fair party with his partner, dancer Melanie Hamrick.
These fifteen images, distilled from tens of thousands, provide an unparalleled visual narrative of the 2026 Oscars—a night where historic wins, personal joy, and unparalleled glamour intersected under the bright lights of Hollywood.
