KPop Demon Hunters’ EJAE Shares How He’s Overcoming Stage Fright for a Possible Oscars Performance

EJAE; Rumi.
Credit: Manny Carabel/Getty; Netflix

NEED TO KNOW

• KPop Demon Hunters star EJAE discusses the possibility of performing the film’s Academy Award-nominated song “Golden” at the upcoming Oscars.
• The film received two nominations for Best Original Song and Best Animated Feature Film on January 22.
• KPop Demon Hunters has won awards at both the Critics Choice Awards and Golden Globe Awards this month, in addition to being nominated for four Grammy Awards on February 1.

KPop Demon Hunters star EJAE has hinted at the potential of performing at the Academy Awards. However, she admits she has some stage fright to overcome first. “There’s definitely been talks of having ‘Golden’ performed. The thought of that is kind of incredibly nerve-wracking, because I have really bad stage fright,” EJAE, 34, said in an interview, laughing as she discussed the movie’s two Oscar nominations with co-directors Maggie Kang and Chris Appelhans.

“I’ve been trying my best to overcome that stage fright, but I think the Oscars is a whole different level of stage fright,” she added.

Appelhans lightheartedly remarked, “She asked us if we’d perform it, so we’re going to step in. It’s what the fans are asking for.”

The nominations mark a culmination of a remarkable awards season for KPop Demon Hunters, which has already secured two wins each at the Critics Choice Awards and Golden Globe Awards earlier this month. The film and its soundtrack are also scheduled to compete for four Grammy Awards on February 1.

Chris Appelhans and Maggie Kang.
Credit: Alberto Rodriguez/2026GG/Penske Media via Getty

“It is, first of all, very surreal,” EJAE remarked about the film’s Oscar nominations. “I feel very honored and grateful, but it’s weirdly pushing me more to work harder. I feel more energized for what’s to come, and it’s so inspiring because you’re amongst such incredible artists, writers, and filmmakers.”

As someone who entered the industry as a songwriter, EJAE expressed disbelief at now being featured as a singer. “I did come in as a songwriter. I didn’t think I’d be a singer. And to be singing also is insane. Seeing people in the film industry who are editors or costume designers and talking to all of them has been really inspiring. I just feel so grateful to be amongst everybody.”

KPop Demon Hunters.
Credit: Netflix

The film has captivated millions, becoming Netflix’s most-watched animated movie ever and even attracting the attention of A-list celebrities. Notably, Leonardo DiCaprio was spotted discussing the film during a Golden Globes commercial break, further highlighting its cultural impact.

“It’s just amazing to now be part of that history, to have a film that we worked so hard on recognized initially by the fans but now by the industry,” Kang stated regarding the movie’s Oscar recognition. “It feels good.”

Conan O’Brien is set to return as the host for the Oscars live on Sunday, March 15, at 7 p.m. ET on ABC and streaming on Hulu. Starting in 2029, the awards show will transition to airing on YouTube.