Colman Domingo’s Toast & More; What TV Cameras Didn’t Catch
Live awards telecasts like the Oscars air with commercials that take up about 15 minutes every hour, which means that we see those attending for about three quarters of the ceremony. During the remaining quarter when the cameras are not rolling, they tend to mingle and have fun.
During the 2025 Oscars Sunday, nominee Colman Domingo jumped on stage during one of the commercial breaks, tequila in hand, offered a toast and engaged the audience to stand up and dance.
He came into possession of tequila after small Don Julio bottles were passed out to every member of the audience — even those who don’t drink.
Domingo was at the center of multiple behind-the-scenes happenings at the Oscars.
This may not top Ellen DeGeneres’ epic selfie from the 2014 Oscars but would come close. The five Best Actor nominees, Domingo, Timothée Chalamet, Sebastian Stan, Ralph Fiennes and Adrien Brody, had become chummy during awards season and commemorated its end by gathering together to take a photo during an Oscar break.
Timothée Chalamet, Colman Domingo, Adrien Brody, Ralph Fiennes, Sebastian Stan at the 97th Oscars.
Rich Polk/Penske Media via Getty Images)
It was a big night for dogs — and that’s not only because Flow won in the Best Animated Feature category. Porcelain War co-director Slava Leontyev arrived with his little dog, a Yorkie named Frodo, who had accompanied him at other award shows. Best Actress nominee Demi Moore also had her award season staple dog, micro Chihuahua Pilaf, with her in the audience.
Minutes before he took his place behind the microphone as the voice of the Oscars, Nick Offerman went on stage to greet the audience, giving them “a brief and wondrous opportunity to feast your glamorous eyes upon my sturdy form.”
Former Academy CEO Dawn Hudson is one of many in Hollywood who lost their homes in the Palisades fire. While her wardrobe burnt down, Hudson showed up for the Oscars wearing a beautiful gown. “I borrowed it from Laura Dern”, she told Deadline in the lobby of the Dolby Theatre.
Speaking of the lobby, that was an area where many of the stars spent the commercial breaks and some of the telecast, watching the proceedings on monitors while getting drinks and snacks. Here are Gal Gadot and Sebastian Stan:
Natalie Sitek contributed to this report.
The Academy Awards have long been a beacon of glitz and glamour, and while the spotlight is often on the flawless performances and polished speeches, an undeniable allure lies in the behind-the-scenes moments that rarely make it to the public eye. From spontaneous interactions to off-the-cuff reactions, these unseen gems capture the essence of the Oscars away from the grand stage.
Among the standout moments, the unfiltered camaraderie between nominees often reveals a different side of Hollywood’s elite. The candid conversations and genuine laughter shared in the green room provide insight into the relationships that extend beyond the competition. One such instance occurred when two leading actresses, vying for the same top honor, were spotted sharing an enthusiastic discussion about their mutual admiration for each other’s work, momentarily forgetting the stakes of the evening.
Another highlight involves the unexpected blooper reel, featuring mishaps and humorous antics that played out during the ceremony’s early rehearsals. One memorable scene included a presenter tripping over their outfit just moments before taking the stage, prompting fits of laughter from backstage crew members witnessing the event unfold. These lighthearted moments serve as a reminder that the Oscars, despite their prestige, are also riddled with human error and spontaneity.
As the night progressed, many attendees found themselves caught up in the whirlwind of emotions that characterize the event. During one particularly poignant moment, a winner became visibly emotional while accepting their award. The candid camera caught glimpses of fellow nominees offering heartfelt support and encouragement, showcasing the heartfelt connection among industry peers. The joy radiating from their smiles stood in stark contrast to the intensity of the competition just moments before, illustrating the spirit of celebration that prevails even amid rivalry.
Dress rehearsals often yield unexpected surprises that lead to delightful “oops” moments. A minor malfunction with one of the elaborate gowns led to an impromptu fashion fix, as stylists scrambled to adjust and make last-minute repairs. With cameras set to capture the main event, those behind the scenes worked tirelessly, their contributions often unnoticed but essential in ensuring the night unfolded smoothly.
In a charming moment of authenticity during the telecast, a live mic mishap revealed a heartfelt exchange between a winner and the production team as they processed the enormity of the recognition. The excitement in the winner’s voice resonated through the air, capturing not just their personal journey but the shared experience of striving for excellence within the industry.
Throughout the evening, elaborate sets and glimmering lights captured the public’s attention, yet it was the unguarded reactions of the audience that told another compelling story. Shots of celebrities in the audience, suspended in time, reflected a raw emotional spectrum from elation to nerves. The camera caught a heartbreaking moment when a presenter unexpectedly honored a late colleague, leading to a solemn collective silence that resonated throughout the hall.
Social media served as a window to these unseen vignettes, with fans gaining access to moments capturing the essence of the night through behind-the-scenes snippets shared by attendees. The fleeting interactions and candid reactions depicted on platforms illuminated the humanity of those who grace the Oscars, offering fans a deeper connection to their favorite stars.
The meticulous orchestration behind the scenes resembles a well-choreographed dance, with crew members subtly guiding the flow of the event. The hours of preparation go unseen, yet every detail, from lighting to sound, plays a significant role in creating the unforgettable experience that unfolds in front of millions of viewers.
As cameras pan across the crowd and emotions swell with anticipation, it becomes clear that the Oscars are about more than just awards. They represent a celebration of artistry and connection, highlighting the shared passion that unites those within the film industry, both on stage and behind the curtain. The laughter, moments of vulnerability, and spontaneous connections encapsulate the essence of this storied night, ensuring that while the spotlight shines brightly, the every-day experiences that unfold beyond the cameras weave a rich tapestry of shared human experience.
