Those tuning in to the 98th annual Academy Awards will likely see some political speeches as celebrities take to the stage to accept their awards for their achievements in film
Celebrities are expected to get political at the Oscars(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
The 98th annual Academy Awards will honor the biggest movies of the past year–and while fans are likely to tune in to see which films take the top prize, they should also expect something else–speeches that address current political issues.
Political talk and commentary has become a major part of awards season over the years, with celebrities frequently bringing them up in various acceptance speeches, skits and presentations, and even from the show’s hosts at times.
While Conan O’Brien isn’t expected to make any heavy political jokes as he earns a five-figure sum for the gig, others can be expected to address a variety of topics–from the current conflict in Iran, to ICE raids, and concerns about the current administration.
Speaking to the Irish Star, PR Strategist and Founder of Apples & Oranges Public Relations, Amore Philip, said that many tuning in should expect a political tone in the speeches.
“It’s very likely,” she said. “The Oscars provide a global microphone and a captive audience. When there are major social or political tensions such as economic concerns, immigration debates, or international conflicts; some winners feel compelled to acknowledge these issues in their speeches.”
While some viewers may think that the speeches are going to stray political because the current administration is a conservative one, and many celebrities are vocal about their dislike for Donald Trump, Philip cautions that it has been a popular means of expression for artists over the years.
(Image: Getty Images)
“There’s a perception that political commentary increases during Republican administrations, largely because Hollywood tends to lean culturally progressive,” she said.
“However, political speeches at the Oscars have existed for decades. What’s different now is that every word is instantly amplified through social media.”
As for who fans can expect to hear from when it comes to politically charged statements and speeches, some stars are more likely to speak up than others.
“Artists connected to films with strong cultural themes often feel more comfortable addressing broader issues,” Philip said. “Directors like Ryan Coogler, actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Michael B. Jordan, whose work frequently intersects with cultural conversation, will most likely use their moment to acknowledge larger themes if they win.”
(Image: Corbis via Getty Images)
Celebrities taking a political tone with their speeches may be the norm, and heavily expected, but like many, Philip also has some weary feelings about the prevalence of them during awards shows–especially the Oscars.
Noting she herself was a former thespian, she finds the political speeches to be draining the shift toward them disappointing.
“I must say that within the last ten years, the ceremony began to feel less like a celebration of storytelling and more like a political platform,” she said.
“For someone who truly appreciates the craft, that shift was disappointing. I miss when the focus was on the work, the performances, the directing, and the storytelling, rather than the surrounding politics.”
The 98th annual Academy Awards air Sunday, March 15th on ABC.