Los Angeles, CA – The nominees for the 98th Academy Awards gathered at the Academy Museum in Los Angeles on , for their annual class photo and luncheon, marking the first major gathering since nominations were announced on . The event, hosted ahead of the live ceremony on and set to be hosted by Conan O’Brien, offered a rare moment of camaraderie amongst this year’s fiercest competitors.
The luncheon, held at the Beverly Hilton, was described as a space for “true-life hugs, shared laughter, and wide-eyed disbelief rather than polished speeches,” according to reports. The gathering provided a visual snapshot of the talent recognized this year, with nominees posing for the traditional group photo – a staple event that has fully returned after adjustments in previous years.
Leading the pack in nominations is ‘Sinners,’ with a record-breaking 16 nods. ‘One Battle After Another’ follows with 13, while ‘Sentimental Value’ and ‘Hamnet’ each received 8 nominations. The breadth of recognition for these films underscores the competitive landscape of this year’s awards season.
Among the standout acting nominees present were Emma Stone, nominated for her performance in ‘Bugonia’; Kate Hudson, recognized for her role in ‘Song Sung Blue’; Jessie Buckley, star of ‘Hamnet’; Renate Reinsve; and Rose Byrne. The assembled group represented a mix of established stars and rising talents, with several actors earning their first Oscar nominations.
The men’s acting categories were equally well-represented, with Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ethan Hawke, Michael B. Jordan, Wagner Moura, Benicio del Toro, Jacob Elordi, Delroy Lindo, Sean Penn, and Stellan Skarsgård all in attendance. Nine actors were first-time nominees: Michael B. Jordan, Wagner Moura, Jessie Buckley, Rose Byrne, Renate Reinsve, Jacob Elordi, Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas, Wunmi Mosaku, and Teyana Taylor. Taylor, nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in ‘One Battle After Another’, was noted for her striking appearance in a sheer-paneled black skirt and sequined coat, reportedly radiating “disbelief” at her nomination.
Beyond the acting nominees, the luncheon drew a significant contingent of filmmakers and industry figures. Chloé Zhao, Yorgos Lanthimos, Diane Warren, Joseph Kosinski, and Geeta Gandbhir were all present, signaling the broad range of creative talent recognized this year. Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania also attended, representing international cinema at the event.
The event wasn’t just about the nominees themselves. The atmosphere was described as relaxed and celebratory, a welcome change from the often-intense pressure of awards season. Photographs from inside the Beverly Hilton show nominees engaging in conversation and swapping stories, suggesting a genuine sense of connection amongst the group. Kate Hudson, nominated for ‘Song Sung Blue’, arrived in a bright red silk dress and black leather gloves, drawing attention for her bold fashion choice.
The luncheon serves as a crucial bridge between the announcement of nominations and the awards ceremony itself. It allows nominees to connect with one another, share experiences, and begin to process the significance of their recognition. For first-time nominees like Taylor, Buckley, Moura, and others, the event likely provided a particularly memorable introduction to the world of the Oscars. The gathering also offers a valuable opportunity for the Academy to foster a sense of community amongst its members and celebrate the art of filmmaking.
With the ceremony just over a month away, the luncheon marks a turning point in the awards season. The nominees have now had a chance to meet, mingle, and acknowledge one another’s accomplishments. As the campaign trail intensifies, the memories and connections forged at the luncheon may prove to be as valuable as any strategic maneuver.
