LOS ANGELES — The action at the Oscars extends far beyond what viewers see during the televised broadcast. Within the Dolby Theatre’s lobby bar, nominees and winners gather to share in the excitement, exchange stories, and enjoy the moment. Here is a behind-the-scenes account of the evening’s events that didn’t make it on air:
**Getting Ready for Showtime**
Nick Offerman, the voice behind the Oscar announcements, took center stage to remind nominees to keep their speeches brief. When the music began playing him off, he playfully protested, exclaiming, “I’m the announcer, I announce the show. You can’t start the show without me!”
**Cheering for Co-Stars**
After a medley performance by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the audience’s excitement was palpable, with Jeff Goldblum and Bowen Yang leading the cheers enthusiastically.
**A Surprise Appearance: The Sandman**
Adam Sandler, in a striking turquoise hoodie, made a surprise entrance, escorted to the front near the stage. As the cameras focused on him, Sandler joined in on the fun, sharing high-fives as he exited the theater.
**Emma Stone Supports Kieran Culkin**
Emma Stone was quick to leap from her seat to cheer for Kieran Culkin’s victory. Shortly after, she joined her husband, Dave McCary, and Jack Antonoff at the bar, where they celebrated Culkin’s win. Stone fondly recounted how she convinced Culkin not to back out of the film “A Real Pain.” Culkin humorously credited Stone with using a “Jedi mind trick” to persuade him.
**A Toast with Vodka**
Following Culkin’s win, “Anora” contender Yura Borisov and co-star Mark Eydelshteyn bypassed champagne in favor of vodka shots at the lobby bar.
**Socializing in the Lobby**
As the evening continued, Fernanda Torres chatted in Spanish while enjoying some trail mix. Nearby, Miles Teller and his wife sipped beers at a hightop, while Sebastian Stan mingled with Universal chair Donna Langley. Meanwhile, Ethan Herisse and Brandon Wilson were captivated by a performance honoring the James Bond franchise.
**Applause for Zoe Saldaña**
Zoe Saldaña received a standing ovation, with Ariana Grande notably rising to applaud her heartfelt speech. Grande then turned to Selena Gomez for a congratulatory hug.
**Casual Conversations**
During another break, Torres took a phone call while Elle Fanning chatted with Marlee Matlin. Nearby, Colman Domingo posed for photos, and Emma Stone wrapped up a conversation with Demi Moore just before the show resumed.
**Moments of Reflection**
Jeremy Strong appeared pensive near the lobby bar, but was comforted by his wife and a fellow guest who stopped by for a chat. Meanwhile, RaMell Ross, filmmaker of “Nickel Boys,” was entertaining a group nearby.
**Admiring Icons**
Colman Domingo was particularly thrilled to spot rock legend Mick Jagger, while Andrew Garfield crossed the room to hug Ariana Grande during a break.
**Lighthearted Banter**
Brady Corbet, director of “The Brutalist,” was engrossed in conversation with Emily Mortimer. Nearby, Dennis Quaid refreshed himself with water as Stone and Adrien Brody shared a laugh. Margaret Qualley and “Wicked” director Jon M. Chu joined the gathering.
**Back to the Theater**
Queen Latifah danced offstage as audience members like Domingo cheered her on. During another break, Felicity Jones caught up with Garfield, and Sandler returned, now in formal attire.
**A Heartfelt Moment**
After winning Best Actor, Adrien Brody shared a special moment with fellow nominee Timothée Chalamet. The two embraced multiple times and posed for photos, including one with Colman Domingo and Sebastian Stan.
**Onward to the Afterparties**
The night concluded with stars mingling and leaving the venue. Chalamet, embracing co-stars and family, was congratulated by a fan who told him he deserved the win. He took a moment for a selfie and wished them a lovely evening before leaving hand in hand with Kylie Jenner.
The televised show might have ended, but the night was still young, with festivities just beginning.
