KPop Demon Hunters Sparks Oscar Buzz as EJAE Faces Stage Fright
KPop Demon Hunters Sparks Oscar Buzz as EJAE Faces Stage Fright
Two Oscar nominations boost KPop Demon Hunters, with EJAE considering performing Golden while tackling stage fright and fan demand.
Two Oscar nominations for KPop Demon Hunters are fueling global excitement as EJAE weighs performing the film's hit song Golden at the 2026 ceremony, while battling stage fright and high expectations. The Netflix film is up for Best Animated Feature Film and Best Original Song for Golden, a pairing that has already helped the movie rack up awards at major ceremonies earlier this season. Alongside the nominations, the project and its soundtrack are also in the running for four Grammys, underscoring its cross-genre impact across film and music.
There’s definitely been talks of having Golden performed, and the thought of that is incredibly nerve-wracking, because I have really bad stage fright, EJAE says with a laugh. The 34-year-old star, who cowrote Golden with Mark Sonnenblick, notes that the Oscars represent a different level of exposure altogether. When asked whether she would step onstage, co-director Chris Appelhans adds a playful touch: it’s what the fans are asking for, so we’ll see how it unfolds.
Directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans emphasize that the Oscar nods cap a season where the film has already claimed top honors at Critics Choice Awards and Golden Globes. The film’s momentum extends to its music, with Golden drawing attention as a standout original song linked to the animation. As the Oscars approach, speculation about a live performance grows, alongside anticipation for how Golden and the film will fare on February 1 in the broader Grammy race.
KPop Demon Hunters has become a cultural touchstone for its blend of animation, music, and international crossover appeal, reflecting a moment when streaming-driven projects are increasingly recognized in major award conversations. With nominations in two marquee categories and a campaign that spans several awards shows, the film’s footprint in 2026 is hard to miss. Fans and industry watchers alike will be watching closely as the ceremony nears, curious to see whether Golden can translate its animated vitality to a live stage, and whether EJAE can rise above stage fright to deliver a memorable moment on Oscar night.
