Konoz Initiative Wins Two Platinum Awards at MUSE Creative Awards for 'Horizon'

Konoz Initiative Wins Two Platinum Awards at MUSE Creative Awards for 'Horizon'
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Konoz Initiative Wins Two Platinum Awards at MUSE Creative Awards for 'Horizon'

Konoz Initiative Wins Two Platinum Awards at MUSE Creative Awards for 'Horizon'

The Konoz initiative, a Saudi Ministry of Media project, has achieved a global milestone by winning two platinum awards at the international MUSE Creative Awards competition for "Horizon" in the cinematography and documentary film categories.

The win brings to 31 the total number of awards won by the initiative locally and internationally, reported the Saudi Press Agency on Sunday.

"Horizon" is one of the production, artistic, and visual works of the Konoz initiative, documenting the richness and diversity of wildlife and natural resources in the Kingdom.

Produced in collaboration with the National Center for Wildlife, the film aims to raise awareness about the environmental diversity in the Kingdom, its unique geographical regions, and efforts to protect wildlife and preserve rare species.

It also introduces the world to the Kingdom's treasures by showcasing its stunning landscapes, rich in diverse plant and animal life, while promoting awareness of its natural wealth.

The international competition celebrates excellence and innovation in design, advertising, and digital media, honoring works that leave a lasting impact on audiences.



Conan O’Brien Will Return as Oscars Host in 2026

Show host Conan O'Brien speaks during the start of the Oscars show at the 97th Academy Awards in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, US, March 2, 2025. (Reuters)
Show host Conan O'Brien speaks during the start of the Oscars show at the 97th Academy Awards in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, US, March 2, 2025. (Reuters)
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Conan O’Brien Will Return as Oscars Host in 2026

Show host Conan O'Brien speaks during the start of the Oscars show at the 97th Academy Awards in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, US, March 2, 2025. (Reuters)
Show host Conan O'Brien speaks during the start of the Oscars show at the 97th Academy Awards in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, US, March 2, 2025. (Reuters)

Conan O’Brien is returning to the Oscars stage in 2026. The late-night host and comedian will preside over the 98th Academy Awards, set for March 15, the film academy’s leadership said Monday.

“The only reason I’m hosting the Oscars next year is that I want to hear Adrien Brody finish his speech,” O’Brien said in a statement.

This year was O’Brien’s first time leading the show, which attracted its biggest broadcast audience in five years despite the winning movie, “Anora,” being relatively small. An estimated 19.7 million viewers watched the 97th Academy Awards ceremony earlier this month, according to broadcaster ABC, with a big lift among people aged 18 to 49, driven by mobile and laptop watches from younger viewers. It was also the most watched prime-time entertainment show of 2025.

“Conan’s unique comedic style perfectly captured the moment, and I’m excited to have his talents back onstage next year to helm another indelible performance,” said Craig Erwich, the president of Disney Television Group, in a statement.

Next year O’Brien will also be surrounded by a familiar team, with Raj Kapoor and Katy Mullan returning as executive producers of the show and Jeff Ross and Mike Sweeney as producers. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Janet Yang said in a joint statement that it’s an honor to be working again with the group behind this year’s broadcast.

“This year, they produced a hugely entertaining and visually stunning show that celebrated our nominees and the global film community in the most beautiful and impactful way,” Kramer and Yang said. “Conan was the perfect host — skillfully guiding us through the evening with humor, warmth and reverence.”

The show also succeeded in social media metrics, outperforming both the Grammy Awards and the Super Bowl, according to Oscars organizers. This was the first time that the show was streamed live simultaneously on Hulu, which was not without its glitches.

The timing of the announcement of next year's hosting and producing teams — less than a month after this year's Oscars — is unusually early for the film academy and ABC.