Timothée Chalamet, Elle Fanning and Kylie Jenner.
(John Shearer/98th Oscars via Getty Images)
Inside the Dolby Theatre on Oscars night, the energy always hits a little differently. Like every year on Hollywood’s biggest night, some of the best moments happen when the cameras aren’t rolling. I was lucky enough to once again be inside the room with the stars, and I have to admit: there’s just always a little extra magic in the air when you’re actually there.
There were joyful standing ovations, hallway catch-ups and at least one moment involving Leonardo DiCaprio enthusiastically waving a K-pop lightstick that would’ve been instantly meme-worthy if it had been shown in the broadcast.
Here are some other things that weren’t shown on TV.
Chalamet gave Michael B. Jordan a standing ovation
The Best Actor race was a nail-biter between Timothée Chalamet (Marty Supreme) and Michael B. Jordan (Sinners). When Jordan’s name was called for Best Actor, fellow nominee Leonardo DiCaprio was one of the first to jump to his feet, sparking a standing ovation that felt like one of the most joyful reactions of the night. Chalamet wasn’t far behind. He and girlfriend Kylie Jenner clapped and cheered as Jordan soaked in the moment. After the speech wrapped, Chalamet stood once more, applauding his peer and giving him a few approving nods.
Stars hit the Dolby Theatre bar during commercial breaks
No one really wants a camera in their face for four hours straight, so during commercial breaks, celebrities often slip out for a quick refreshment and bathroom break. And if there’s one star you can almost always count on spotting there, it’s Emma Stone. Stone and her husband, Dave McCary, made a couple of appearances throughout the night, at one point holding court with Alicia Silverstone. During one break, Stone walked into the lobby bar with Chalamet’s sister. Stone also spent time chatting with Kate Hudson, who spent the first commercial break — adorably — catching up with her parents, Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell.
Conan O’Brien gave attendees a ‘Moderately Happy Meal”
The note Conan O’Brien left guests under their seats at the Oscars.
(Taryn Ryder)
Host Conan O’Brien left a small surprise under guests’ seats before the show began. Each box came with a note addressed to nominees, plus-ones and even the seat fillers.
“I hope you enjoy this Conan O’Brien ‘Moderately Happy Meal,’” the note read alongside a sketch of the comedian. “These snacks may not look like much but in any movie theater they would run you $85. Good luck tonight, have fun, and remember that loud, enthusiastic laughter is good for your health and my ego.”