The glitz and glamour of Hollywood, once a reliably mesmerizing spectacle, appear to be losing their luster, with the 98th Academy Awards in 2026 recording a sobering four-year low in viewership.
The 2026 ceremony saw a remarkable 42% increase in social media impressions, reaching over 181 million, according to ABC data cited by Capsule NZ .
As noted by Capsule NZ , this concept was even named Cambridge Dictionary's 2025 Word of the Year, indicating its widespread cultural relevance.
The global success of Korean cinema and television, exemplified by Parasite's Best Picture win and Squid Games ' record-breaking viewership, signifies a hunger for narratives beyond the traditional Hollywood mold.
This suggests that the formula for success has evolved from star power to authentic, relatable narratives that speak to specific communities and societal dialogues.
The Oscars 2026 hit a four-year ratings low, sparking debate about Hollywood's diminishing appeal and a seismic shift in how audiences consume and engage with celebrity and content.