The 2025 Oscars performers lineup is shaping up to be a spectacular showcase of musical talent, with some of the biggest names in entertainment confirmed to take the stage at the 97th Academy Awards. On Monday, the Academy unveiled its initial slate of artists, promising viewers a night of showstopping performances that celebrate both the filmmaking community and some of its legendary contributors. From pop superstars to Broadway royalty, the 2025 Oscars performers list is already generating enormous buzz as Oscar Sunday approaches.
The Star-Studded 2025 Oscars Performeers Lineup
The Academy’s announcement revealed an impressive roster of 2025 Oscars performers ready to deliver memorable moments during Hollywood’s biggest night. Leading the pack are Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the dynamic duo who brought Elphaba and Glinda to life in the cinematic phenomenon “Wicked.” Their inclusion among the 2025 Oscars performers makes perfect sense given the film’s massive commercial and critical success, as well as its multiple nominations.
Joining them are several powerhouse artists representing diverse musical genres. Queen Latifah, the iconic rapper, actress, and longtime Academy favorite, is set to take the stage once again. Doja Cat, one of the most streamed artists of recent years, will bring her contemporary pop flair to the ceremony. Lisa, the Thai rapper and global superstar from BLACKPINK, continues her impressive crossover into American entertainment. And British singer-songwriter Raye, whose debut album earned widespread acclaim and multiple awards, rounds out the announced performers.
“Viewers can expect showstopping performances celebrating the filmmaking community and some of its legends,” the Academy teased in its official press release, hinting that additional 2025 Oscars performers could be announced in the days leading up to the ceremony.
Special Musical Moments with the Los Angeles Master Chorale
In addition to the celebrity performers, the Los Angeles Master Chorale is scheduled to deliver a special performance during the 97th Academy Awards. This prestigious choir has a rich history with the Oscars, having contributed to many previous ceremonies and even earning Academy Award nominations for their work. Their presence among the 2025 Oscars performers adds a touch of classical elegance to an otherwise pop-heavy lineup.
A New Approach to Best Original Song
Perhaps the most significant change to the 2025 Oscars performers slate is what will not be performed. In a letter sent to Academy members on January 22, the organization revealed that the 2025 Oscars would depart from tradition by forgoing the usual live performances of the Best Original Song nominees. This represents a notable shift in how the ceremony celebrates its nominees.
Instead of standard musical performances, the Academy has reimagined the segment to focus on the songwriters themselves. According to the announcement, the presentation will “celebrate their artistry through personal reflections from the teams who bring these songs to life.” The goal is to “uncover the stories and inspiration behind this year’s nominees,” giving audiences a deeper look at the creative process behind the nominated music.
The Academy has promised that this new format will still include “powerful musical moments that connect film’s rich history to its bold and inspiring future.” While the 2025 Oscars performers won’t be performing the nominated songs in their traditional fashion, this approach allows the ceremony to highlight the human artistry behind the music in a way that’s never been done before at the Oscars.
Conan O’Brien Takes the Stage as Host
The 97th Academy Awards will be hosted by comedian Conan O’Brien, marking his first time presiding over the Oscars ceremony. O’Brien, known for his sharp wit, lengthy late-night career, and self-deprecating humor, brings a fresh energy to the hosting duties. The late-night legend’s appointment has been met with enthusiasm from fans who anticipate a memorable evening filled with the comedian’s signature blend of intelligence and absurdity.
Behind the scenes, the ceremony is being helmed by Raj Kapoor, who serves as showrunner and executive producer, alongside executive producer Katy Mullan. This production team is responsible for crafting the overall flow and feel of the broadcast, including how the 2025 Oscars performers are integrated into the broader program.
How to Watch the 2025 Oscars
Mark your calendars: Oscar Sunday falls on March 2, 2025. The ceremony will broadcast live on ABC and stream simultaneously on Hulu, giving viewers multiple ways to tune in for Hollywood’s biggest night.
Red Carpet Coverage
The celebration begins well before the main ceremony. Live red carpet coverage kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET / 12:30 p.m. PT with “On The Red Carpet at the Oscars.” Fans can catch all the fashion, interviews, and celebrity arrivals through multiple platforms:
- Live broadcast on ABC
- Streaming on OnTheRedCarpet.com
- The On The Red Carpet Facebook page
- The On The Red Carpet YouTube channel
The Main Ceremony
The 97th Oscars, hosted by Conan O’Brien, begins at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. Following the awards presentation, viewers can enjoy a special preview episode of “American Idol,” extending the primetime entertainment well into the night.
Why the 2025 Oscars Performer Lineup Matters
The selection of 2025 Oscars performers reflects a deliberate effort by the Academy to appeal to younger audiences while honoring the rich musical heritage of cinema. By booking artists like Doja Cat, Lisa, and Raye alongside established talents like Queen Latifah, the ceremony aims to bridge generational divides and celebrate music’s role in storytelling across all eras.
The inclusion of Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande is particularly strategic. Both women have become cultural phenomena in their own right, and their “Wicked” performances have introduced a new generation to musical theater magic. Having them among the 2025 Oscars performers ensures that fans of all ages will find something to love during the broadcast.
This approach also helps the Academy address ongoing concerns about declining viewership. By embracing contemporary stars and innovative formats, the 2025 Oscars performers slate represents a calculated attempt to revitalize interest in the ceremony and remind audiences why the Oscars remain a cultural touchstone.
Looking Ahead to Oscar Night
As the countdown to March 2 continues, anticipation is building for what promises to be one of the most memorable Academy Awards ceremonies in recent memory. The combination of a beloved host in Conan O’Brien, an eclectic mix of 2025 Oscars performers, and the bold decision to reimagine the Best Original Song segment creates a recipe for compelling television.
Additional performers may still be announced in the coming days, adding even more excitement to an already stacked lineup. With red carpet coverage beginning in the early afternoon and the main ceremony unfolding in prime time, March 2 will offer nearly six hours of entertainment celebrating the best in film and music.
The 2025 Oscars performers announcement marks the beginning of an exciting countdown to Hollywood’s biggest night. Whether you’re tuning in for the awards themselves, the dazzling performances, or simply Conan O’Brien’s hosting debut, the 97th Academy Awards is poised to deliver an unforgettable evening that honors both the legends of cinema and the bright future of the entertainment industry.