The 2026 Academy Awards ceremony is approaching, scheduled for March 15 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California. As part of the pre-award festivities, the Academy traditionally hosts a lunch for the nominees, which was notably absent last year due to the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. This year's event took place in Beverly Hills, bringing together many stars to celebrate their nominations in a jovial atmosphere.

Timothée Chalamet, nominated for Best Actor for his role in 'Marty Supremo,' expressed his joy at being part of the event, noting that it felt like a blessing to be present. The lunch served as a celebratory reunion for various nominees, with the sounds of champagne corks popping and happy reunions marking the occasion. Chalamet also highlighted the stark contrast with the previous year’s scaled-down event, which had to be canceled due to damage from the raging fires in January, emphasizing the community's resiliency and appreciation for such gatherings.

With the Oscars marking a significant moment in the film industry, this traditional lunch not only highlights the nominees but also sets the tone for the upcoming ceremony. The presence of major figures like Guillermo del Toro and Chalamet conveys the excitement surrounding the awards, while also reflecting on previous challenges faced by the industry. As the date draws near, anticipation for the Oscars grows amid the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, with this lunch serving as a precursor to the celebration of cinematic excellence.