Oscars countdown: Conan O'Brien helps roll out iconic red carpet ahead of 2026 Oscars

The anticipation is building in Hollywood as the Oscars’ signature red carpet makes its grand appearance, setting the stage for the most glamorous night in Tinseltown.

For weeks, crews have been diligently preparing the Dolby Theatre and its surroundings for the prestigious awards ceremony. On Wednesday, they unveiled the renowned carpet, stretching an impressive 900 feet in length and 33 feet in width.

This vibrant pathway will soon be graced by this year’s Oscar nominees, along with an array of celebrated movie stars, directors, producers, and performers, all under the watchful eyes of media from around the globe.

Conan O’Brien, returning to host the 98th Academy Awards for his second stint, was present to witness the carpet rollout.

O’Brien hinted at an evening of bold moves and humor. “This year, we’re aiming for a bit more audacity,” he mentioned. “Last time, we faced challenges like fires, and I found myself living out of a hotel. This year, we’re swinging for the fences with some bigger plans.”

“This year, we’re gonna go maybe a little bit more ambitious with some things,” O’Brien said. “Last year… the fires and things like that. I was living out of a hotel so this year I’m hoping to get… we have some slightly bigger swings that we’re going to take.”

For now, the iconic carpet will be covered in plastic tarp as crews finish setting up the area before Sunday.

Don’t miss Hollywood’s biggest night: The Oscars on ABC!

Our live Oscar pre-show, “On The Red Carpet at the Oscars,” begins at 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT and will feature live interviews with the nominees, red carpet fashion analysis and more!Watch the 98th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O’Brien, on March 15 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ABC and Hulu, followed by “The Bachelorette: Before the First Rose.”Check your local listings or stream on Hulu and OnTheRedCarpet.com.

Disney is the parent company of this station.

Copyright © 2026 OnTheRedCarpet.com. All Rights Reserved.

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