The 98th Academy Awards, held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood and hosted by Conan O'Brien, have been widely criticised by viewers as a 'snooze fest'. Despite cheers inside the venue, social media users took to X to express their disappointment, with some calling it the 'most boring ceremony' they had witnessed in 20 years.
One user wrote: 'This is the most boring ceremony I've ever witnessed in 20 years #oscars.' Another added: 'This Oscars is the most painful, boring thing I've watched maybe ever #oscars.' Complaints also targeted the show's writing and pacing, with a viewer noting: 'Queens of comedy on that stage and yet still not funny. Huge missed opportunity for this boring show.'
Host Conan O'Brien's performance was singled out for criticism, with one fan fuming: 'Conan O'Brien was a disaster from the moment it started. Most boring … bring back Jimmy Kimmel or Ricky or Chris Rock with Will Smith as co host.' Producers also drew ire for cutting short winners' speeches, adding to the frustration both at home and on stage.
However, not all reactions were negative. One viewer enjoyed the ceremony, writing: 'This Oscars is so fun because there's so many movies I would like to win in each category so either way I leave this broadcast happy.' The In Memoriam segment, featuring tributes to Rob Reiner and Robert Redford, was widely praised. Billy Crystal led the tribute to Reiner, calling him 'brilliant' and highlighting his films such as This Is Spinal Tap and Stand By Me.
Despite the praise, the In Memoriam segment also faced criticism for notable omissions, including Brigitte Bardot, James Van Der Beek, and Robert Carradine. One fan blasted: 'The segment runs for 15 minutes and not even a mention of Brigitte.' Another added: 'Brigitte was a huge omission.'
