Oscars Postponed Two Months So Filmmakers Can Finish, Release Films Delayed By Coronavirus

TOPLINE

Coronavirus’s latest disruption to Hollywood: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced today that due to the pandemic, it will delay the 2021 Oscars ceremony to April 25 from February 28 and extend the eligibility window to be more flexible for filmmakers.

KEY FACTS

key quote

“For over a century, movies have played an important role in comforting, inspiring and entertaining us during the darkest of times,” wrote Ruben and Hudson in their statement. “They certainly have this year.” 

key background

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has led to the cancellation of countless concerts, festivals, sports games, marathons, marches and more. In the awards space, the MTV Movie and TV Awards was postponed indefinitely on June 9, the Cannes Film Festival was postponed twice, the Eurovision Song Contest was canceled, and the 55th Academy of Country Music Awards was postponed to September 16, among other major disruptions. 

further reading

“Coronavirus Cancellations: Every Film, TV Show, and Event Affected by the Outbreak” (Indie Wire)

“All the Live Events, Movie Releases, and Productions Affected by the Coronavirus” (Vulture)