The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has unveiled an electrifying lineup for the 97th Academy Awards, set to air live on ABC and Hulu on March 2, 2025. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the powerhouse stars of Wicked, will return to the Oscars stage following their standout performance last year, as confirmed by the Academy on Tuesday. While specific songs remain under wraps, speculation points to fan-favorite numbers like “Defying Gravity” or “Popular” from the blockbuster musical, which has earned 10 nominations this year, including Best Picture and Best Supporting Actress for Erivo.

Adding to the night’s star power, LISA of BLACKPINK, Doja Cat, and RAYE are set to deliver the world premiere live performance. The trio’s collaboration has already generated buzz as a gritty, soulful anthem, and their Oscars debut promises to be a historic moment. Hosted by late-night icon Conan O’Brien, the telecast is shaping up to be a musical celebration of cinema’s finest.

The Academy also confirmed additional performances to round out the evening. Queen Latifah will take the stage with a medley honoring The Color Purple’s legacy, joined by the film’s cast for a tribute marking its cultural impact and recent adaptation nods. Meanwhile, British singer-songwriter RAYE will also pull double duty, performing her nominated original song “It’s Not Over” from The Piano Lesson, a soul-stirring ballad that’s earned critical acclaim.

Grande and Erivo’s return follows Wicked’s colossal box-office haul—over $1 billion worldwide—and its critical praise, cementing its status as a cultural juggernaut. Sources close to the production hint at a possible duet or ensemble number, with choreography and staging designed to reflect the film’s whimsical yet defiant spirit. The Oscars performance will mark their second live rendition together, after a promotional appearance at last year’s ceremony left audiences spellbound.

With Doja Cat’s bold energy, LISA’s K-pop precision, and RAYE’s emotive depth is poised to bring a fresh edge to the night, while Latifah’s commanding presence will anchor the lineup. The 2025 Oscars, broadcast from the Dolby Theatre, are already touted as a must-watch event, blending Hollywood glamour with chart-topping talent. Stay tuned for more updates as the Academy finalizes the evening’s full musical slate.