Before the 98th Academy Awards, expectations were set for a traditional ceremony, marked by formal presentations and polished speeches. The role of the announcer, typically a serious position, was anticipated to follow this trend, especially after Nick Offerman’s tenure in 2025.
However, the arrival of Matt Berry as the announcer on March 15, 2026, marked a decisive shift. Known for his comedic roles, particularly as Laszlo Cravensworth in ‘What We Do in the Shadows’, Berry’s pre-show announcement was irreverent and filled with humor, diverging from the expected decorum. His remarks, which included jokes about the audience and acceptance speeches, quickly went viral on social media.
Conan O’Brien, who hosted the Oscars, praised Berry as a “genius,” highlighting the positive reception of his comedic style. Berry’s theatrical delivery and distinctive voice added a fresh layer to the ceremony, engaging viewers in a way that was both entertaining and unexpected.
The KPop Demon Hunters, who won the Best Original Song award, also contributed to the evening’s memorable moments. Their acceptance speeches were unfortunately cut off by the orchestra, leading to boos from the audience. This incident contrasted sharply with Berry’s lively pre-show, showcasing the tension between traditional Oscar decorum and a more modern, engaging approach.
With seven songwriters in the KPop Demon Hunters, they became the largest group to win this award in Oscars history, a notable achievement that further emphasized the evolving landscape of the Academy Awards. Berry’s comedic commentary included a joke about how one out of every five nominees was deserving of recognition, reflecting a more relaxed atmosphere.
As the ceremony unfolded, the reactions to Berry’s performance indicated a shift in audience expectations. Raj Kapoor, a notable figure in the industry, remarked, “The only problem with working with [Berry] is wanting him to announce absolutely in the show forevermore.” This sentiment underscores the positive impact Berry had on the event.
In a moment that resonated with many, Berry quipped, “That’s right, I can swear. I’m British, and we’re not on the air,” further breaking the mold of the traditional announcer role. His ability to blend humor with the formalities of the Oscars set a new precedent for future ceremonies.
Overall, the 2026 Oscars showcased a blend of tradition and modernity, with Berry’s role as a pivotal point in this evolution. The Academy’s decision to embrace a more humorous and engaging format may signal a new direction for future events, appealing to a broader audience.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding how this shift will influence future Oscar ceremonies, but the immediate effects of Berry’s performance have certainly left a lasting impression.
