Film’s biggest night Oscar is postponed to 2021

The Academy Awards, alias Oscars has been postponed for the first time in 40 years following the outbreak of novel coronavirus. The board of governors of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences released the information that Oscar will be held on April 25, 2021, instead of February 28, 2021. 

In line with the announcement, the eligibility window for new or upcoming films has been extended until February 20, 2021. The dates of submission have rolled back. 

When was the Oscar delayed before? 

During the attempt of assassination of President Ronald Reagan, the oscar was delayed for a span of 24 hours in the year 1981. Since then, this is the first Oscar that has been delayed so far. 

The outbreak of novel coronavirus has not only affected normal life but the whole film fraternity is as well, disrupted. Many films or TV series are awaiting its release or many film stars who’ve signed the films are waiting for its shooting to return. Perhaps, film festivals have also altered their dates due to the spread. While some films have taken a digital-only approach to its release, some are still considering the rescheduling option. 

The Academy President David Rubin and Academy CEO Dawn Hudson in a joint statement said, “For over a century, movies have played an important role in comforting, inspiring, and entertaining us during the darkest of times. They certainly have this year. Our hope, in extending the eligibility period and our Awards date, is to provide the flexibility filmmakers need to finish and release their films without being penalized for something beyond anyone’s control.” 

Meanwhile, ABC entertainment President Karey Burke also commented on the delay by stating, “We find ourselves in uncharted territory this year and will continue to work with our partners at the Academy to ensure next year’s show is a safe and celebratory event that also captures the excitement of the opening of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.”