The Oscars, which experienced its lowest-rated Academy Awards telecast on record this year, has announced changes intended to create a more entertaining experience for viewers worldwide.
In a letter to members, President John Bailey and CEO Dawn Hudson cited three major changes:
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cutting the telecast to three hours and presenting select categories during commercial breaks, which will then be edited and aired later in the broadcast,
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adding a new award category for “Outstanding Achievement in Popular Film,” and
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changing the date of the 92nd Oscars in 2020 from February 23 to the February 9.
These announcements address increasing concerns that the tradition-entrenched ceremony isn’t keeping up with the changing world around it.
By shortening the broadcast and adding a category for blockbuster hits, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences aims to provide a more enjoyable and accessible show for movie fans.
