ABC and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Monday the 90th Oscars telecast on Sunday, March 4, 2018, will now begin at 8:00 p.m. EST/5:00 p.m. PST, a half-hour earlier than prior telecasts.

As previously announced, late-night talk show favorite Jimmy Kimmel will return to host, and Michael De Luca and Jennifer Todd will return to produce.

Additionally, starting at 6:30 p.m. EST/3:30 p.m. PST, the Oscars Pre-Show returns to give fans exclusive, insider access to all the excitement of the red carpet.

[ 170 Documentary Features Submitted for 2017 Oscar Race ]

The 90-minute special features interviews with nominees, presenters and performers, and brings viewers the best behind-the-scenes moments.

ABC and the Academy also released a first look at the 90th Oscars with a promo celebrating the season.

The 90th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 4, 2018, at the Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network.

The Oscars also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.