The 97th Academy Awards did not disappoint—from emotional wins to jaw-dropping performances and meme-worthy moments, the night gave us everything we needed to wrap up awards season with a bang. With Conan O’Brien as host, there were plenty of comedic gems, but the ceremony also delivered history-making wins, powerful speeches, and an opening performance that literally defied gravity.
Let’s break down the most iconic moments from the 2025 Oscars that had everyone talking.
Ariana Grande & Cynthia Erivo’s Wickedly Perfect Opening Performance
If there was one way to kick off Hollywood’s biggest night, it was with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo performing Defying Gravity on the Oscars stage. Grande, who arrived in a powder-pink Schiaparelli gown, transformed mid-show into a stunning red ballgown silhouette, setting the scene for her magical rendition of Over the Rainbow as a nod to her Oscar-nominated role as Glinda in Wicked. And just when we thought the night couldn’t get any better, Cynthia Erivo—dazzling in a white gown with cascading floral details—joined her on stage to perform Defying Gravity. Two Broadway queens. One stage. Zero notes. The night could have ended there, and we all would have been satisfied.
Kieran Culkin Is Halfway to an EGOT
After his first Oscar nomination and first win for A Real Pain, Kieran Culkin is officially halfway to an EGOT. Fresh off his Emmy win for Succession, the actor is proving that his talent is undeniable—and now, the only question is how long until we see him on a Broadway stage? The moment was made even better by his hilarious and heartfelt speech, where he managed to be awkward, grateful, and meme-worthy all at once—a true Culkin special.
Zoe Saldaña’s First Oscar Win Was an Emotional Moment
After years of delivering iconic performances across sci-fi, action, and drama, Zoe Saldaña finally won her first Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in Emilia Pérez—and her speech was everything.
Emotional, moving, and filled with gratitude, Saldaña took a moment to thank her fellow nominees and the Latin community, calling the win a dream come true.
From Broadway-level performances to unexpected wins and viral fashion moments, the 2025 Oscars delivered exactly what we needed.
