BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

The 97th Academy Awards delivered a night filled with electrifying performances, heartfelt speeches, and moments that will be remembered for years to come. From breathtaking musical numbers to nostalgic reunions, the Oscars once again proved why it remains Hollywood’s most glamorous event. 

Here’s a look at the biggest highlights from the 2025 ceremony.

The evening kicked off with a show-stopping Broadway-inspired opening as Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande took the stage. Grande first captivated the audience with a stunning rendition of Over the Rainbow, before Erivo joined her for Home from The Wiz. 

The true highlight came when the duo delivered a powerful performance of Defying Gravity, leaving the entire Dolby Theatre in awe. As Erivo’s final note rang through the venue, the audience erupted into applause, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.

Adrien Brody and Halle Berry stole the spotlight with a playful callback to their infamous 2003 Oscars moment. That year, Brody, in a burst of excitement after winning Best Actor for The Pianist, surprised Berry with a kiss onstage. 

This time, it was Berry who turned the tables, planting a kiss on Brody as they reunited on the red carpet. “I had to pay him back,” she joked, sparking cheers and laughter from onlookers.

As the James Bond franchise enters a new era under Amazon, the Academy paid tribute to its legacy with an unforgettable musical medley. Lisa of BLACKPINK opened with a dramatic performance of Live and Let Die, followed by Doja Cat’s sultry take on Diamonds Are Forever. 

Raye closed out the tribute with a powerful rendition of Skyfall, evoking memories of the franchise’s most iconic moments. The segment was both a celebration and a farewell, marking the end of an era for Bond fans worldwide.

While the Oscars are usually a night of glitz and glamour, this year’s event also acknowledged the devastating wildfires that have gripped Los Angeles. Host Conan O’Brien invited a group of firefighters onstage, prompting a standing ovation from the audience. 

In a lighthearted moment, O’Brien had the firefighters deliver some of his riskiest jokes, adding a touch of humor to an otherwise sobering tribute.

Zoe Saldaña’s Best Supporting Actress win for Emilia Pérez led to one of the night’s most touching moments. Overcome with emotion, she tearfully called out to her mother in the audience, thanking her for shaping the person she has become. 

Saldaña also took a moment to reflect on her Dominican heritage and the sacrifices her family made for her success, making her speech one of the most heartfelt of the evening.

The 2025 Oscars blended nostalgia, spectacle, and heartfelt tributes, creating a night to remember. From Broadway powerhouses delivering breathtaking performances to surprise reunions and moving speeches, the ceremony had something for everyone. 

As Hollywood continues to evolve, this year’s Academy Awards proved that storytelling, talent, and timeless moments will always take center stage.

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo Taken by Kevin Winter from Getty Images