Report: Oscars Could Be Postponed Due To Coronavirus...And It Might Not

It’s almost the end of May, and we have now received a second report that the 93rd Academy Awards may move off the previously announced Feb. 28, 2021 date. At this time, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences has only commented that the current Oscars telecast date is the current Oscars telecast date. But, let’s dive into the clickbait possibilities, shall we?

Variety has reported that “multiple sources” have informed the trade that the Oscars could be postponed. The Academy would not comment. It is unclear whether these sources are on the Board of Governors or within the Academy itself (we have our doubts). The Playlist’s own sources do not believe any plan is in place to move the telecast at this time. However, that doesn’t mean the idea has not been brought up. Moreover, The Playlist’s own sources do not believe the Academy will combine the 2021 and 2022 Oscar seasons. That’s important to keep in mind.

Obviously, the Oscars date could be postponed due to the current COVID-19 pandemic. They could push the season a month to the “former” telecast date the third Sunday in March. Or to any time in March for that matter. But, the idea that any decision is going to be made at this time is also a bit ludicrous. Until the Academy and the industry knows if or when theaters can get back up and running, it doesn’t make any sense to announce a change to the season.

Beyond a return to some form of distribution, there’s also the question of whether Film Festivals will return in September. If a significant number of fall festivals (Telluride, TIFF, NYFF, Venice) are canceled, it could influence the Academy into postponing the Oscars date so more international films, shorts, and documentaries can qualify. Consider that informed conjecture.

But, again, it’s the end of May. Take a deep breath and avoid assumptions. No decisions are being made until the theatrical distribution business can get up and running again.