The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and ABC announced the first slate of presenters for the first Oscar telecast without a host in 30 years and, as expected, a number of blockbuster stars were in the mix.
Breakout star Awkwafina, James Bond himself, Daniel Craig, “Avenger” Chris Evans, Tina “please host” Fey, Whoopi “why isn’t she hosting” Goldberg, “Captain Marvel” Brie Larson, Jennifer “I had a nice hit no one is talking about” Lopez, Amy Poehler, Maya Rudolph*, “You should have seen ‘The Hate U Give’” with Amandla Stenberg, Charlize Theron please do a “Fury Road” sequel, Sundance juror Tessa Thompson and “Crazy Rich Asian’s” Constance Wu. Additionally, AMPAS announced Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Philharmonic will perform during the “In Memoriam” segment (yawn).
*If Fey, Poehler and Rudloph present together teasing that they could have hosted it will almost be cruel.
In a release from the Academy it noted: “The show will honor the incredible slate of nominees – from blockbusters to independent films – and embrace the diversity of the global movie-going audience.” Producers Donna Gigliotti and Glenn Weiss and added, “The Oscar nominees have generated tremendous worldwide attention through their captivating stories, achievements and performances. We want to give the public an opportunity to once again experience the moments that have moved us all. It is a celebration of our universal love of movies.”
Trying to hype up perhaps the most troubled Oscar telecast since James Franco and Anne Hathaway hosted in 2011, ABC Entertainment President Karen Burke added, “From blockbuster hits to intimate tales of the human spirit, the movies we celebrate at the Oscars connect us in a way that is both moving and powerful,” said Karey Burke, President, ABC Entertainment. “Donna and Glenn will deliver a tribute worthy of the talent that will present and receive Oscar gold, and I’m so proud that ABC is home to this monumental night.”
Recently, following a ton of blowback, the Academy announced that all five Original Song nominees would perform during the telecast, but in truncated 90-second segments.
More presenters should be announced in the days to come.
The 91st Academy Awards will be held on Feb. 24 and broadcast semi-live on ABC beginning at 5 PM PT, 8 PM ET.
