Elton John decided to switch things up for the 2025 Oscars.
This year, the legendary musician skipped his usual role as the host of his star-studded annual viewing party and opted for a front-row seat at the Dolby Theatre instead.
At 77 years old, Elton was spotted mingling with Hollywood’s elite at the Oscars ceremony itself, enjoying the night with his husband, David Furnish.
Meanwhile, just a short distance away in West Hollywood, the festivities continued at Elton’s own gala for his Elton John AIDS Foundation’s 33rd Annual Academy Awards Viewing Party.
A Night of Oscars and Glittering Galas
As Elton soaked in the magic of the Oscars, watching Anora and Dune: Part Two dominate the evening’s awards, the stage at his charity gala was set.
Sheryl Lee Ralph, Jean Smart, Neil Patrick Harris, and David Burtka were on hand to co-host the glittering event, and there was still a chance that Elton might make a grand entrance at his own party.
After all, with performers like Chappell Roan set to take the stage, no one would be surprised if he showed up to liven things up!
Elton’s Tradition of Giving Back
Elton’s Oscars viewing party has become a beloved tradition since it first launched in 1993.
The event benefits his Elton John AIDS Foundation and has become one of the most talked-about parties of the season.
Over the years, it’s raised millions of dollars for HIV/AIDS research and support while attracting an impressive list of A-list celebrities.
The evening typically includes lavish dining, live entertainment, and a large screen for guests to enjoy the Oscars live.
Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the event continued with a virtual edition, keeping the spirit of giving alive.
Fast forward to 2023, and the fundraiser had raised over $100 million, solidifying its place as both a glamorous affair and a philanthropic powerhouse.
A Night of Uncertainty in the Oscar Categories
As for the Oscars ceremony itself, the 2025 awards season brought some unexpected twists.
This year’s nominations featured some unsettled categories, with several upsets in the best picture and acting categories.
Emilia Pérez led the nominations with 13, including nods for Best Picture, Best Actress (Karla Sofía Gascón), and Best Supporting Actress (Zoe Saldaña).
The Brutalist followed closely with 10 nominations, including Best Director and acting nominations for Adrien Brody and Guy Pearce.
In a year where the competition was tight, movies like Wicked and Anora were right in the mix for major awards, with Anora eventually taking home the coveted Best Picture honor.
Some of the Big Winners at the 2025 Oscars
The list of winners was packed with surprises. Anora took home Best Picture, while The Brutalist’s Lol Crawley won Best Cinematography.
Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez earned Best Director, with Mikey Madison winning Best Actress for her role in Anora.
The Best Actor category saw Adrien Brody winning for The Brutalist, and Zoe Saldaña took home the trophy for Best Supporting Actress for Emilia Pérez.
As the night continued to unfold, there were many unforgettable moments—highlighting the magic, drama, and excitement that make the Oscars an annual tradition that never fails to impress.
Hollywood Celebrates in Glamorous Fashion
Of course, no Oscar night is complete without a dazzling array of fashion and musical performances.
The 2025 Oscars featured stunning live performances by Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and RAYE, giving the ceremony a musical spark that had everyone on the edge of their seats.
With Hollywood’s elite all in one place, the Oscars night was filled with excitement, entertainment, and—of course—glamour.
Elton John may have skipped his hosting duties this year, but he certainly made the most of it by soaking in the Oscars magic alongside some of the biggest stars in the world.
It was another unforgettable night for both his charity and for Hollywood.