The 96th Academy Awards, featuring the triumphant “Oppenheimer,” live performances of “Barbie” hits, and a humorous stint with a nearly naked John Cena, drew a viewership of 19.5 million, marking a significant increase from pandemic-era numbers but still trailing the levels of the past decade, which hovered around 40 million.
Christopher Nolan’s atomic bomb drama, “Oppenheimer,” dominated the evening by securing seven Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor for Cillian Murphy. Meanwhile, “Poor Creatures” clinched four Oscars, with Emma Stone honored as Best Actress.
Highlights of the night included Ryan Gosling’s rendition of “I’m Just Ken,” the powerful ballad from “Barbie,” Jimmy Kimmel’s well-received hosting, and Cena’s appearance, presenting the Best Costume award clad in only sandals.
Variety praised Gosling’s performance as “maximalist and infectiously comedic,” describing it as the ideal way to channel positive energy on a night that felt genuinely joyful.
Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas also took the stage to perform the award-winning song “What Was I Made For?” from the “Barbie” soundtrack. Indigenous musicians showcased the nominated track from the film “The Moon Killers.”
The increased viewership is a welcome trend for award shows that have faced declining audiences amid competition from short, fast-paced content on social media. This year’s Oscars benefited from the global success of “Oppenheimer” and the “Barbie” phenomenon that dominated theaters in 2023.
The Los Angeles Times praised the “boisterous and flashy Oscars” that infused humor, celebrated cinematic history, and balanced just the right amount of political commentary. Notably, former President Donald Trump, among millions tuning in, received a cheeky remark from Kimmel during the live broadcast.
While the evening featured laughter, it also included poignant references to Hollywood strikes, the Gaza conflict, and the war in Ukraine, adding depth to the glamour and glitz of the Oscars.