On Tuesday, nearly all 230 Oscar nominees from 24 categories met at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills for the traditional Oscars luncheon, marking an important prelude to the awards ceremony next month. The Emma Stone Oscars Luncheon featured an event that encouraged camaraderie and equal footing among Hollywood’s top talent and newcomers, providing a vital moment for reflection and preparation.
Inclusive Atmosphere Unites Veterans and First-Time Nominees
The luncheon attracted a diverse group of contenders, with both celebrated figures and fresh faces sharing the spotlight. Actors such as Jessie Buckley, Timothee Chalamet, Emma Stone, Michael B. Jordan, and filmmaker Ryan Coogler mingled alongside nominees from categories spanning animated shorts to the new casting award. This wide range of talents highlighted the event’s commitment to inclusivity across the film industry’s creative spectrum.
The event maintained its signature relaxed and egalitarian mood, allowing everyone, from widely recognized stars to lesser-known creatives, to connect over lunch and participate in the traditional group photo. This break from the usual competitive frenzy gave nominees a rare chance to engage as peers rather than rivals.
Return to Tradition Following Last Year’s Adjustments
The 2026 luncheon returned to its full format after the 2025 event was cancelled due to Southern California wildfires, which had led to a scaled-back cocktail reception and a group photo immediately before the ceremony. The restored event reaffirmed its place in Oscar season as a cherished gathering that balances informal interactions with formal recognition of achievement.
Academy President’s Speech Emphasizes Preparedness and Brevity
Academy president Lynette Howell Taylor addressed the nominees for the first time during this luncheon, offering guidance on how to handle the possibility of winning. She provided practical advice with a touch of humor, insisting,
“Don’t say you didn’t expect it. You have a one in five chance of winning.”
— Lynette Howell Taylor, Academy President.
Taylor urged winners to make their acceptance speeches heartfelt yet concise, recommending a 45-second timeframe and focusing on meaningful expressions rather than long thank-you lists. She suggested that awardees select one representative to speak on behalf of groups to keep speeches impactful without dragging.
Memorable Roll Call Highlights Sense of Achievement
A standout moment of the afternoon was the roll call of nominees, where each person present was called to the stage. Academy Board of Governors member Lou Diamond Phillips read the names, beginning with Delroy Lindo, nominated for Best Supporting Actor for “Sinners,” and closing with Teyana Taylor, up for Best Supporting Actress for “One Battle After Another.” This tradition has a ceremonial tone, akin to a graduation procession that celebrates individual accomplishment within the collective.
Fashion and Style Shine Alongside Talent
Style was a prominent feature at the luncheon, where Emma Stone, nominated for Best Actress for “Bugonia,” made a striking impression in a tuxedo-inspired gown. Kate Hudson, recognized for “Song Sung Blue,” chose a dramatic red dress paired with black gloves, while Timothee Chalamet wore a sharp blue suit. Additional notable appearances included stars Leonardo DiCaprio, Elle Fanning, and Jessie Buckley, who added to the event’s glamorous yet approachable atmosphere.
A Moment of Pause Before Awards Night Intensity
For nominees and industry insiders alike, the luncheon served as a valuable pause before the hectic awards night. It allowed those involved to celebrate their hard-earned nominations, share conversations with peers, and reflect on the long journeys that brought them to this defining moment in their careers. The gathering’s spirit of equality and shared anticipation contrasts with the high-stakes tension the ceremony will bring.
