What's Happening?
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that only two of the nominees for Best Original Song will be performed live at the 98th Academy Awards. This decision is attributed to time constraints and structural changes in the telecast. The songs 'Golden' from 'KPop Demon Hunters' and 'I Lied to You' from 'Sinners' will be the only ones performed live. The remaining nominees will be introduced through custom-produced segments that include film footage and behind-the-scenes insights. The Academy aims to maintain the integration of the Best Original Song category into the broadcast while managing the show's runtime.
Why It's Important?
This decision reflects the ongoing challenges faced by award shows in balancing comprehensive coverage of categories
with the constraints of broadcast time. By limiting live performances, the Academy seeks to streamline the event while still honoring the nominees. This move could impact the visibility and promotional opportunities for the songs not performed live, potentially affecting their commercial success. The decision also highlights the evolving nature of award shows as they adapt to new media landscapes and audience expectations.
What's Next?
The 98th Academy Awards will air on March 15, hosted by Conan O'Brien. The Academy's approach to integrating the Best Original Song category through film-based segments may set a precedent for future broadcasts. As the Oscars transition to platforms like YouTube in 2029, the format and presentation of such categories may continue to evolve, potentially allowing for more flexibility in showcasing nominees.
