Oscars 2026: Underdogs, Surprises, and Predictions

Oscars season is always a time of high drama, bold predictions, and heated debate. As we approach the 2026 ceremony, NPR's team of seasoned critics has gathered to share their insights, dark horses, and expert forecasts for the biggest night in Hollywood.

The 2026 Oscars contenders are a diverse bunch, spanning vampires, high-octane car chases, classic show tunes, ping pong prodigies, and even the Bard himself. While the frontrunners have emerged, our critics believe there are a few underdogs that could pull off some major upsets.

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At the top of the list is the critically acclaimed