By Ellite Times Team The 97th Academy Awards are all set to begin; the red carpet is about to be rolled out. Just days to the event, and there is so much anticipation for the show. This year, fans can also bet on some of the winners in selected US states, besides watching the event.
Betting on Oscars
According to FanDuel, betting is granted in New Jersey and eight other jurisdictions across the US for the 2025 Academy Awards. Odds can sometimes discover possible winners and underdogs but very often, such markets are swayed by inside knowledge because it is a run.
Event Specifics
Date: Sunday, March 2, 2025 Time: 6:30 p.m. ET, with the main event kicking off at 7:00 p.m. ET. Venue: Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, Los Angeles Where to Watch: ABC (broadcast) and streaming platforms, including Hulu, YouTube TV, AT&T TV, and FuboTV.
Host and Presenters
For the first time, comedian Conan O’Brien will host the Academy Awards, bringing his signature wit to the stage. In keeping with tradition, last year’s acting winners return to present the awards; this means Cillian Murphy, Emma Stone, Robert Downey Jr., and Da’Vine Joy Randolph will all be handing out awards. Joining them are Hollywood icons such as Scarlett Johansson, Whoopi Goldberg, and Oprah Winfrey.
Star-Studded Performances
This year, the award ceremony will showcase a few of the biggest stadium names in popular culture. Confirmed performances include the following:
Cynthia Erivo & Ariana Grande (performing a number from Wicked)
Doja Cat
Lisa (from BLACKPINK)
Queen Latifah
Raye
In addition, a cumulative of more acts expected to be revealed the closer we get to the event.
For 2025 Oscar Nominees
Leading the pack in nominations is Emilia Pérez with 13 nominations, followed closely by 10 nominations for both The Brutalist and Wicked. Here’s the complete Best Picture nominee list:
Anora
The Brutalist
Complete Unknown
Conclave
Dune: Part Two
Emilia Pérez
I’m Still Here
Nickel Boys
The Substance
Wicked
Breaking Down the Best Picture Contenders
Dune: Part Two- The epic sci fi sequel is predisposed to win, tilted by the beautiful imagery and high-caliber performances by Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya.
Anora- Sean Baker’s latest feature makes an emotional impact and thus would be solid in the race.
The Substance- A very bold horror movie with a strong comment on beauty norms.
I’m Still Here- A touching biopic under the shadow of Brazil’s political-affairs maelstrom.
Wicked- A dazzling stage-to-screen remodeling on Broadway, featuring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo.
In this hypercompetitive race, every nominee offers something to distinguish itself from the other.
Final Thoughts
As the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences accelerates its countdown to the 97th Annual Academy Awards, its fans and critics alike all begin to speculate who is capable of taking home Hollywood’s highest honors. Whether you are there for the glamor, the winners, or the most memorable performances, this year’s Oscars is sure to create an unforgettable experience. Save the date – March 2 – and prepare to indulge in a night of cinematic celebration!