Ratings for the Oscars 2026 may have dipped compared to previous years, but you’d hardly know it from the buzz generated by the recent red carpet at the Dolby Theatre. The event sparked a massive $225.84 million in media engagement, a significant jump from the $173.07 million noticed during the 2025 Oscars. This surge highlights how strategically pairing celebrities with luxury brands can capture ample attention. It’s worth noting, however, that the Met Gala often surpasses these numbers, with its 2025 event leading the awards season in visibility.
For the past three years, The Hollywood Reporter has teamed up with Launchmetrics to generate annual Red Carpet Power Rankings. This collaboration focuses on analyzing engagement across major awards events, such as the Critics Choice and Golden Globe Awards, plus the Met Gala. Launchmetrics uses its Media Impact Value algorithm to determine the influence of brands and stars, attaching a monetary value to social media posts and editorial features.
Interestingly, the jump in numbers this year is largely female-centric. As brands cultivate celebrity partnerships, the women in Hollywood seem to be the biggest beneficiaries. One star, in particular, showcased a stunning diamond-studded watch at the event, drawing even more attention to the impact of celebrity endorsements.
When it comes to fashion, Chanel emerged as a clear winner. The brand’s partnership with well-known stars like Jessie Buckley, Nicole Kidman, and Teyana Taylor paid off, leading to a hefty $28.5 million in media engagement. The thoughtful selection of stars, particularly those anticipated to win awards, underscores a savvy marketing approach that continues to pay dividends.
Dior also made waves, primarily thanks to Amy Madison’s splendid ensemble and the attention-grabbing gown worn by Rose Byrne, netting the brand $20.3 million. Similarly, Louis Vuitton secured $18.3 million, dressing both Michael B. Jordan and Emma Stone, among others.
Fashion isn’t the only draw; the jewelry and watch scene shone brightly too. Bulgari debuted high-jewelry pieces, with notable appearances from Priyanka Chopra and Anne Hathaway, leading to a stunning $9.7 million in media impact. Tiffany & Co. followed closely behind, capitalizing on both influencer appearances and its newly announced ambassador, Natalie Portman, to achieve $8.7 million.
On the men’s side, Timothée Chalamet topped the rankings with his Givenchy outfit. The backlash he faced leading up to the event didn’t appear to hinder his media appeal, as he garnered $3.8 million in value. In contrast, Hudson Williams, in all-black Balenciaga, was just behind with $3.76 million.
What’s particularly noteworthy is the divide in media earnings between genders. Women took home a substantial $37.9 million, while men fell behind, earning just $16.36 million—a mere fraction of the women’s total. This disparity continues to draw attention and conversation in Hollywood circles.
As we enter the next awards season, the upcoming Met Gala promises to take center stage again. With an intriguing theme of “Fashion as Art,” our anticipation builds for fresh and out-of-the-box fashion statements. And with Kidman co-chairing the event alongside influential figures like Anna Wintour and Beyoncé, we expect another memorable night in fashion history.
In conclusion, the Oscars remain a powerful platform. From fashion to brand partnerships, it demonstrates how carefully curated celebrity appearances can shape conversations and perceptions in the industry.
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