Unseen Oscars Moments: The Lobby Bar, Dress Mishaps and Backstage Plans
There exists the Oscars ceremony that millions watch on television, and then there is the entirely separate event that unfolds off camera, away from the broadcast's glare. During commercial breaks, the Dolby Theatre transforms into a hive of activity where stars race to congratulate peers, console losers, or simply escape to the famed lobby bar for a moment of privacy. At the 98th Academy Awards, The Associated Press gained exclusive access to document all the fascinating occurrences that never made it to the global broadcast.
Red Carpet Tardiness and the Glambot Dodge
Many of the night's biggest names demonstrated a penchant for cutting things exceptionally close, arriving on the red carpet a mere thirty minutes before showtime. Unlike a standard film premiere, live television waits for no one, not even the most celebrated A-lister. This timing provided a convenient excuse for actor Paul Mescal, who politely declined to participate in the "glambot" slow-motion camera sequence, stating, "Sorry, I don't have time." As he ascended the theatre stairs with girlfriend Gracie Abrams, she laughed and quipped, "you sure you don't want to do the glambot?"
A Family Affair at the Lobby Bar
Early in the broadcast, following Conan O'Brien's opening monologue, Kate Hudson made a beeline for the lobby bar during a commercial break. She was soon joined by her mother, Goldie Hawn, and Hawn's partner, Kurt Russell, creating a charming family tableau. Hudson experienced a brief moment of panic, worrying she might be needed back in the auditorium, but a nearby staffer reassured her after consulting a schedule on an iPad. "I'm good!" she declared, returning to her family. The trio remained inseparable throughout the evening. Even after the show, a non-winning Hudson was in high spirits, enthusiastically congratulating Michael B. Jordan on his victory.
Celebrity Drink Orders Revealed
The lobby bar offered a rare glimpse into the beverage preferences of Hollywood's elite. After Sean Penn's win for Best Supporting Actor was announced in his absence, Jacob Elordi visited the bar with his mother, his arm protectively around her shoulder. He selected a fine tequila, Don Julio 1942, served with ice and lime. In another corner, Nicole Kidman socialized while sipping champagne, a choice mirrored by Jessie Buckley nearby. Paul Mescal opted for a pink-hued tequila cocktail, while Gracie Abrams chose champagne. Nick Jonas was seen managing two bottled waters and a mixed tequila drink, later inquiring about vodka only to be informed none was available.
Not all stars indulged in alcohol. Domhnall Gleeson snacked on Hershey's Kisses with almonds, and "Heated Rivalry" star Hudson Williams ate a single slice of cucumber.
Emma Stone's Second Dress Incident
While not as public as her famous dress malfunction during her "Poor Things" acceptance speech, Emma Stone encountered another minor wardrobe issue in the lobby. While conversing with "Bugonia" screenwriter Will Tracy and his companion, her diamond ring became entangled in the back of her gown. Tracy's date performed a delicate extraction, successfully freeing the ring without damaging the dress and returning it to Stone's middle finger.
Post-Show Party Logistics and Exclusivity
Much of the off-camera conversation centred on afterparty plans, with many expressing frustration over Vanity Fair's decision to cull its invitation list for greater exclusivity. "It's so weird, even if you're nominated it doesn't mean you can go," remarked Stone, who planned to board a large bus with her "Bugonia" colleagues, visit the Universal Pictures party, and then proceed to the A24 bash.
Family Support from the Mezzanine
Both Michael B. Jordan and Jessie Buckley made poignant mentions of their families during their acceptance speeches. Their relatives were seated together in a mezzanine section—decent seats, but somewhat obscured from the stage view. Following the wins, well-wishers flocked to congratulate the proud families.
The 'Sinners' Crew Celebrates Together
As the ceremony concluded, the "Sinners" ensemble exited the auditorium as a united group. Jordan embraced costume designer Ruth E. Carter, while Joachim Trier sought out Ryan Coogler for a congratulatory hug. Ryan and Zinzi Coogler paused to watch a replay of Jordan's speech on a nearby screen. Actor Omar Benson Miller, who played Cornbread, was visibly processing the night's events, noting the palpable love for their film despite his self-professed tendency to be a "sore loser." "Hey, we got a couple!" he said triumphantly.
Scenes from the Governors Ball
The first official post-show stop for most attendees was the Governors Ball, located just a few escalator rides above the Dolby Theatre. The Warner Bros. tables for "One Battle After Another" were particularly jubilant, where Leonardo DiCaprio sipped red wine and Benicio Del Toro enjoyed champagne alongside several small beers, entertaining studio executives including Pamela Abdy. Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav made an appearance, offering a congratulatory pat on the back to DiCaprio.
Elsewhere, Renate Reinsve walked barefoot on the carpeted floor, Steven Spielberg discussed his Vanity Fair plans with Clint Bentley, and Mandy Patinkin sat alone sampling sushi, attempting a phone call over the blaring music. Patinkin expressed his honour in attending to support his late friend, director Rob Reiner. "Rob made a beautiful movie," he stated solemnly, reflecting on the night's deeper connections beyond the glamour.
