Where to Watch the 2026 Oscars Online for Free Without Cable
· Rolling StoneIf you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
The 98th Annual Academy Awards will take place this Sunday, March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, California. Considered one of the biggest nights in Hollywood, this year’s ceremony will begin at 7:00 p.m. ET, with pre-event coverage starting at 6:30 p.m. ET.
If you want to watch the major event online but don’t have a traditional cable subscription, we’ve outlined some of the best ways to stream the 2026 Oscars below.
At a Glance: Where to Watch the 2026 Oscars Online for Free
- Stream: DirecTV, Fubo, Hulu + Live TV, Sling
- Channel: ABC
- Date, time: Sunday, March 15, 2026 at 7 p.m. EST (pre-coverage starts at 6:30 p.m. EST)
This year’s broadcast will feature Conan O’Brien returning as host and promises to “recognize excellence in cinematic achievements,” per the Academy. Some of the nominees for Best Actor in a Major Motion Picture include Michael B. Jordan and Timothée Chalamet, while the Best Actress category features nominees such as Emma Stone and Rose Byrne.
One of the most highly anticipated awards of the night is Best Picture, with films like F1, Hamnet, and One Battle After Another all vying for the coveted 24-karat gold statuette.
How to Watch the 2026 Oscars Online Without Cable
Since 1929, the Academy Awards have been a celebrated tradition that brings together the best of the film industry. Whether you’re watching from the comfort of your couch or hosting a viewing party with friends, there are several ways to stream the 2026 Oscars online without cable, and even for free.
Don’t miss a moment of the event everyone will be talking, tweeting, and meme-ing about the next day. Read our guide below to learn how you can tune in live.
editor’s Pick
DirecTV
➤ $39.99/month
➤ Five-day free trial
➤ Up to 185+ channels
DirecTV is a solid way to catch the 2026 Oscars, thanks to its broad channel lineup that includes ABC in most markets. The MyNews pack starts at $39.99 per month and features major channels like ABC, NBC, CNN, and other leading news networks. Even better, every DirecTV plan begins with a five-day free trial.
Fubo
➤ $55.99/month
➤ Five-day free trial
➤ Up to 300+ channels
Fubo is one of our favorite streaming platforms for live TV, and it’s a great option for watching the 2026 Oscars on ABC. New subscribers can start with a free trial, and after that the first month is $45.99, followed by a monthly price of $55.99.
Hulu + Live TV
➤ $89.99/month
➤ Three-day free trial
➤ 95+ channels
Hulu + Live TV is one of the most complete streaming bundles available, making it an easy way to watch the 2026 Oscars live on ABC. Subscribers get access to Hulu, Disney+, ESPN+, and a full lineup of live channels. The ad-supported plan starts at $89.99 per month after a three-day free trial and includes 95+ channels.
Sling
➤ $45.99/month
➤ Short-term passes available
➤ Up to 46 channels
Sling is another streaming option for tuning in to the 2026 Oscars, offering access to ABC through its Select, Blue, and Blue + Orange packages. It’s one of the more budget-friendly ways to stream live TV, with plans starting at $19.99 per month. There is no free trial.
What Time Do the Oscars Start on Sunday?
The 2026 Oscars ceremony begins at 7:00 p.m. ET, with pre-awards show coverage starting at 6:30 p.m. ET.
How Can I Watch the Oscars for Free?
You can watch the 2026 Oscars online for free by starting a trial with DirecTV. Sign up below to begin streaming.
What Movies Are Nominated for the Oscars This Year?
Some nominees this year for Best Picture include F1, Frankenstein, Train Dreams, One Battle After Another, and Sinners.