Still, the possibility of a potential viewership bump wasn’t a complete unknown, at least to the Academy CEO.

In an exclusive interview ahead of the 97th Oscars, Kramer told ADWEEK’s Ethan Alter that he expected Hulu to give the show a gravity-defying ratings boost.

“I think we’re going to reach a new audience this year,” Kramer said, adding, “We’re very excited about that.”

The 98th Oscars will be held Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood, airing on ABC and in more than 200 territories worldwide.