Oscar 2026: Predictions, Odds & Betting Tips for the 98th Academy Awards

The 98th Academy Awards are generating buzz, with Conan O'Brien returning as host and several films emerging as frontrunners.

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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The 98th Academy Awards, set for March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, are already generating buzz. With Conan O'Brien returning as host, the stage is set for another engaging ceremony. The article discusses the frontrunners, a potential battle of generations between Timothée Chalamet and Leonardo DiCaprio for Best Actor, the rise of Jessie Buckley in the Best Actress category, the power of combined strengths between Jessie Buckley and Chloé Zhao, and the focus on innovation in the technical categories. The article also provides tips for Oscar betting, including the importance of precursor awards, odds comparison, and exploring opportunities in less-publicized categories.

Why it matters

The Oscars are one of the most prestigious awards in the entertainment industry, and the predictions and odds for the 98th Academy Awards are generating significant interest and speculation. The article provides insights into the key trends and potential winners, which can be valuable for both casual viewers and those interested in Oscar betting.

The details

According to the article, Paul Thomas Anderson's 'One Battle After Another' and Chloé Zhao's 'Hamnet' are currently leading the pack in terms of betting odds and critical acclaim. The Best Actor race is shaping up to be a showdown between Timothée Chalamet and Leonardo DiCaprio, reflecting a broader shift in Hollywood with established stars facing competition from a new generation of talent. Jessie Buckley is favored to win Best Actress for her role in 'Hamnet,' signaling a potential trend of recognizing performances in smaller, character-driven films. The combination of Jessie Buckley's performance and Chloé Zhao's direction in 'Hamnet' is creating a powerful synergy, suggesting the importance of looking beyond individual categories and identifying films with broad appeal across multiple awards. In the technical categories, films like 'Avatar: Fire and Ash' and 'Sinners' are leading the way, demonstrating the continued emphasis on groundbreaking visual storytelling.

  • The 98th Academy Awards are set for March 15, 2026.
  • The ceremony will take place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.

The players

Paul Thomas Anderson

A filmmaker whose film 'One Battle After Another' is currently a frontrunner for the Oscars.

Chloé Zhao

A director whose film 'Hamnet' is also considered a frontrunner for the Oscars.

Timothée Chalamet

An actor who is a potential contender for the Best Actor award for his performance in an unspecified film.

Leonardo DiCaprio

An actor who is also a potential contender for the Best Actor award for his performance in 'One Battle After Another'.

Jessie Buckley

An actress who is currently favored to win the Best Actress award for her role in 'Hamnet'.

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What’s next

The article does not mention any specific next steps related to the 98th Academy Awards.

The takeaway

The predictions and odds for the 98th Academy Awards highlight the evolving trends in the entertainment industry, with a focus on films that resonate with both critics and audiences, the rise of new talent, and the continued importance of technical achievement in Oscar recognition. The article provides valuable insights for both casual viewers and those interested in Oscar betting.