The Academy Awards typically start at 1:00 AM GMT on the Monday after the ceremony’s Sunday evening in LA. Yes, you read that right: the glamour kicks off in the early hours of a Monday, because Hollywood loves a bit of dramatic timing. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to watch the whole thing live unless you’re a true cinephile or you’ve already consigned your Monday productivity to the bin.
The main ceremony actually starts around 12:00 AM GMT, with the red carpet pre-show about an hour earlier. So, if you’re a planner, set your alarm for 11:30 PM Sunday night, grab a cuppa, and brace yourself for sequins and speeches.
Why This Actually Makes Life More Fun
Think about it: watching the Oscars at 1 AM in the UK turns a simple awards show into an adventure. It’s a secret, late-night party where you’re the only one in your pajamas who knows who won Best Sound Mixing. You get to text your mates groggy “DID YOU SEE THAT DRESS?” memes while they’re still dreaming.
There’s a quirky joy in the shared sacrifice of staying up late for art and glamour. Plus, you can make it an event: brew some fancy tea, pregame with a movie marathon, and turn your living room into a mini Dolby Theatre. It’s like a European heist movie, but with fewer explosions and more acceptance speeches.
