3 Feb – After the criticism surrounding its lack of Best Original Song live performances last year, the Academy Awards is set to bring it back for this coming 2026 edition. However, it will only be two of them. Only two songs will be performed live: "Golden" from "KPop Demon Hunters" and "I Lied to You" from "Sinners". According to a letter sent to this year's music nominees by Oscars executive producers Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan, and producer Taryn Hurd, the decision to feature these specific performances reflects how the songs "have played a defining role in their global cultural impact and audience connection this year." The selection of "Golden" is particularly significant, as the track has become a cultural phenomenon since the film's release. The producers teased "segments designed to honour how music helped these stories resonate worldwide," suggesting special treatment for the KPop Demon Hunters performance.
Meanwhile, "Sinners"- which leads this year's Oscar nominations with a record-breaking 16 nominations - will also see its nominated song performed live, cementing the film's dominant presence at the ceremony. The three other nominated songs - Nick Cave and Bryce Dessner's "Train Dreams" from "Train Dreams", Diane Warren's "Dear Me" from "Diane Warren: Relentless" and "Sweet Dreams of Joy" by Nicholas Pike from "Viva Verdi!" - will be introduced via custom-produced segments featuring film and behind-the-scenes footage, with additional support across social media. The producers emphasised that all nominees "are being treated with the same care, storytelling focus and intention as the other awards categories, all of which will be included on the show."
It is noted that last year's Best Song performances segment was cut to save time, but was criticised due to additional performances from other artistes deemed unnecessary, including the 007 James Bond tribute by Doja Cat, LISA and RAYE. The 2026 Oscars, hosted by Conan O'Brien for the second year in a row, will take place in Los Angeles on Sunday, 15 March.