The 2026 Oscars are making headlines with heated debates over major snubs, diversity concerns, and frontrunner predictions, sparking controversy and industry-wide discussion ahead of the ceremony.
Los Angeles, Feb. 24, 2026 — The 98th Academy Awards are just days away, but the lead-up has been dominated by heated debates over surprise snubs, diversity concerns, and frontrunner predictions, according to The Hollywood Reporter. The controversy has ignited social media and industry circles, making this one of the most talked-about Oscar seasons in recent memory.
This year’s Oscar nominations, announced on January 23, immediately sparked a wave of reactions. Several high-profile films and performances were left out of key categories, fueling accusations of bias and reigniting conversations about representation in Hollywood, as reported by Variety.
Background: Oscar Controversies and Calls for Change
The Academy Awards have faced scrutiny over diversity and inclusion for years. The #OscarsSoWhite movement, which began in 2015, led to significant changes in Academy membership and voting rules, according to The New York Times. However, critics argue that progress has been uneven, with this year’s nominations reigniting old wounds.Despite efforts to broaden its voting base, the Academy’s choices continue to draw criticism. Data from the Los Angeles Times shows that only 26% of this year’s acting nominees are people of color, down from 38% in 2025. This decline has prompted renewed calls for greater accountability and transparency in the selection process.
Major Snubs Spark Outrage
Among the most discussed omissions is director Ava DuVernay, whose film "Sovereign Light" was widely expected to secure multiple nominations. Despite critical acclaim and strong box office performance, DuVernay was left out of the Best Director category, as noted by Deadline.Similarly, acclaimed actor Diego Luna’s performance in "Borderlines" was overlooked for Best Actor, sparking backlash on social media. Fans and industry peers have taken to X (formerly Twitter) to express disappointment, with the hashtag #LunaDeservedBetter trending worldwide.
Other notable snubs include the sci-fi epic "Stellar Drift," which failed to secure a Best Picture nomination despite being a critical and commercial hit. According to IndieWire, many industry insiders expected the film to be a major contender.
Fruntrunners and Predictions
Amid the controversy, some films and artists have emerged as clear favorites. "The Last Symphony," a period drama directed by Chloe Zhao, leads the pack with 11 nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actress for newcomer Maya Park, according to Variety."Neon City," a gritty urban thriller, is also a frontrunner, with strong showings in the screenplay and acting categories. The film’s star, Idris Elba, is widely tipped to win Best Actor, while industry analysts predict a close race for Best Picture between "The Last Symphony" and "Neon City," as reported by The Hollywood Reporter.
In the Best Actress category, Maya Park faces stiff competition from veteran performer Cate Blanchett, nominated for her role in "The Glass Tower." According to Gold Derby’s expert predictions, the outcome remains highly uncertain, with both actresses enjoying strong support among voters.
Backlash Over Diversity and Representation
The lack of nominations for women and people of color in key categories has reignited criticism of the Academy. The NAACP issued a statement calling the omissions "a setback for progress," while advocacy group Time’s Up urged the Academy to "do better in recognizing diverse voices," according to The New York Times.Ava DuVernay herself addressed the controversy in an interview with NPR, saying, "It’s disappointing, but not surprising. The industry still has a long way to go." Her comments have been widely shared, fueling further debate about systemic barriers in Hollywood.
Academy Responds to Criticism
In response to mounting backlash, Academy President Janet Yang released a statement affirming the organization’s commitment to diversity. "We recognize the concerns raised and remain dedicated to fostering a more inclusive environment," Yang said, as reported by Deadline.The Academy also announced plans to review its nomination process after the ceremony, with a focus on increasing transparency and representation. Industry observers note that similar promises have been made in the past, but meaningful change has been slow, according to The Guardian.
Industry Analysis: Why Do Snubs Persist?
Experts point to several factors behind recurring Oscar snubs. Film historian Dr. Carla Ramos told Variety that "campaign spending, industry politics, and entrenched biases all play a role in shaping outcomes." She added that smaller films and artists from marginalized backgrounds often lack the resources to compete with major studios.Data from the Motion Picture Association shows that Oscar campaigns can cost studios upwards of $20 million, creating barriers for independent filmmakers. This financial disparity often translates into less visibility for diverse voices, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
What’s Next: The Road to Oscar Night
As the ceremony approaches, industry insiders are watching closely to see if the Academy will address the controversies during the broadcast. Some expect presenters and winners to use their platform to call for change, as has happened in recent years.Meanwhile, social media campaigns and advocacy groups are urging viewers to hold the Academy accountable. The outcome of this year’s awards could have lasting implications for future ceremonies and the broader push for equity in Hollywood, according to Deadline.
Sources
This article draws on reporting and data from The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, Deadline, The New York Times, IndieWire, NPR, The Guardian, and the Motion Picture Association.Sources: Information sourced from The Hollywood Reporter, Variety, Deadline, The New York Times, and other leading entertainment news outlets.