Inside the 2026 Oscars Winners Room: What You Didn’t See on TV

The 98th Academy Awards concluded with emotional speeches and surprising moments on stage, but behind the scenes, in the exclusive winners room, a different kind of drama unfolded. This year’s ceremony featured heightened security, a historic tie, and candid moments with Hollywood’s biggest stars, offering a glimpse into the celebrations and interactions that cameras didn’t capture.

A Buzzing Atmosphere and Media Scramble

Following the presentation of the golden statuettes at the Dolby Theatre, winners are escorted to rooms where they pose for photos and answer questions from journalists. The room itself hosted several hundred reporters, fueled by an “Oscar-worthy buffet” throughout the day. Journalists hoping to pose a question to the winners used numbered cards, with a moderator selecting who would have the opportunity to speak. The atmosphere built with anticipation as major winners arrived, with some receiving particularly enthusiastic reactions from the press.

Celebration and Spontaneous Moments

Jessie Buckley, after making history as the first Irish woman to win the Best Actress Oscar, shared her post-win plans with a simple, celebratory message: “Don’t travel to bed, keep partying!” Having already secured a BAFTA, Golden Globe, Critics Choice, and Actor Award, her enthusiasm was palpable.

Other winners also displayed spontaneous joy. A production designer celebrated with his Oscar in one hand and a beer in the other, while Pasha Talankin, the filmmaker behind “Mr Nobody Against Putin,” revisited his win by rereading the announcement envelope.

Heightened Security Measures

Security at the 2026 Oscars was significantly increased due to ongoing international tensions, specifically referencing the conflict between the US and Israel’s war in Iran. Los Angeles authorities implemented multiple security perimeters, comprehensive traffic management, and a highly visible police presence around the Dolby Theatre. SWAT vehicles were stationed on surrounding streets, and extensive fencing created barriers. Media personnel experienced rigorous security checks, including multiple metal detector screenings and bag inspections by police dogs, even when entering the Loews Hotel across from the Dolby Theatre.

A Historic Tie and Frenzied Reactions

The Best Short Action Film category resulted in a historic tie, causing a flurry of activity among reporters as they adjusted to the unexpected outcome. This added to the overall sense of excitement and unpredictability within the winners room.

Chalamet Jokes and Backstage Banter

Host Conan O’Brien incorporated lighthearted jokes into his opening monologue, playfully teasing Timothée Chalamet after the actor’s recent comments about ballet and opera. O’Brien joked about potential protests from the opera and ballet communities, prompting a smile from Chalamet and his girlfriend, Kylie Jenner.

The 98th Academy Awards delivered a captivating show for television viewers, but the moments within the winners room offered an exclusive and intimate seem at the celebrations and reactions of Hollywood’s elite.