Oscars to feature ‘respectful’ Ukraine moment

The Oscars Awards live telecast on Sunday will recognize the repercussions of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine; as Hollywood’s A-list celebrities assemble for their annual celebration of the movies. On Thursday, organizers gave few details but indicated there would be a time during the Oscars ceremony to recognize the invasion. The war has killed hundreds and displaced a fifth of Ukraine’s 44 million people.

“While we want the night to be fun and celebratory (and) we want it to be an escape, this is a tumultuous time around the world,” producer Will Packer said on Thursday at a press conference. The show, which will be broadcasted live on Walt Disney Co’s ABC, “will acknowledge those things and do it in a way that is respectful,” he added.

Oscars will be telecasted at 8 p.m EDT 

Wanda Sykes, one of three female comedians set to emcee the show, claimed producers have “something planned that we love” in regards to Ukraine’s predicament. “It’s organic and it’s thoughtful,” she said.

Amy Schumer, who will co-host the Oscars; last week, claimed that she presented the idea of asking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to participate via satellite to producers. However, they turned her down. Packer said on Thursday that Zelenskiy might make an appearance. “It’s not me producing the Oscars,” she said on “The Drew Barrymore Show.”

The pandemic is still on everyone’s mind; especially after news that several people contracted COVID-19 while attending the BAFTAs in London. Before the performance, the Academy will require each attendee to submit two negative PCR tests. Vaccinations are necessary for audience members.