With so many actors slamming the Oscars for it’s diversity deficiency, this year’s show could see in a dip in viewership. To combat the outrage/potential ratings disaster, the Academy of Motion Pictures has a quick fix in mind.
According to the New York Post, the Academy wants to find Black presenters to give out major awards like the Best Picture trophy. Oprah (who happens to be a member of the Academy) and Morgan Freeman are two of the names floating around.
Quincy Jones has agreed to present an award as long as he can give a five-minute speech on diversity. It’s not clear if producers agree with his request just yet, but with the show about a month out, they might want to get on board.
Cheryl Boone, the Academy’s first Black president said in a statement that she is “heartbroken” over the diversity issue, but that wasn’t until after the likes of Spike Lee, and Jada Pinkett-Smith announced personal boycotts of this year’s ceremony. Will Smith won’t be going either, out of support for his wife.
Lupita Nyong’o, who won an Oscar for her role in 12 Years a Slave also weighed in on the issue, along with George Clooney, Whoopi Goldberg, and more.
Meanwhile, Chris Rock is still being urged to step down as Oscars host. The awards ceremony airs Feb. 28.
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Photo: WENN
