As previously announced, Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo will perform a “Wicked” medley to begin the Oscars ceremony. Blackpink’s Lisa, currently appearing on this season of “The White Lotus,” will also perform, as well as Doja Cat and Raye.

Oprah Winfrey and Whoopi Goldberg, co-stars in Jones' 1985 film "The Color Purple," led the tribute the legendary music producer, who died at the age of 91 in November 2024. The tribute continued with a performance by Queen Latifah, who performed “Ease on Down the Road” from "The Wiz" in front of the Oscars audience.