Oscars are one of the most distinguished awards and every artist hopes to win one in their lifetime. 2023 was the 95th anniversary of the Oscars and since it’s been running for so long it’s no doubt that controversies find their way to the show. From Will Smith’s slap to the blunder on stage in 2017 when “La La Land” was announced the winner of best pictures instead of “Moonlight.” Let’s take a look at a few of the most controversial moments in Oscars history.
1. When Will Smith Slapped Chris Rock
During the 2022 Oscars Will Smith charged to the stage and slapped Chris Rock for making a joke about his wife Jada Smith and her shaved head. This scene set social media on fire while Will continued to win the Best Actor award. The Academy decided not to take his award but banned him for 10 years from any events.
2. When Marlon Brando boycotted his award
During the 1973 Oscars, Marlon Brando won the best actor award for his work in “The Godfather” but he was not present in the ceremony as he was boycotting the show due to the representation of Native Americans in Hollywood movies, instead he sent Sacheen Littlefeather on his behalf to the stage to give a speech on Native American Rights.
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3. “La La Land” mistakenly announced as the winner of the best picture award
During the 2017 Oscars, “La La Land” was announced as the winner of the best pictures when the presenters received the wrong envelope. Midway through their speech it was announced by the producers of the Oscars that the actual winner of the best picture was “Moonlight.” Contributing to one of the most awkward moments in Oscars history and resulting in huge criticism by social media users.
4. Adrien Brody kissed Halle Berry
During the 2003 Oscars Adrian Brody won an Oscar for his work in “The Pianist”, the award was presented to the actor by Hale Berry as he reached the stage he took Hale Berry in his arms and kissed her on the mouth. Berry laughed at the actor’s action but later said that she did not want this to happen. The incident made headlines and the actor was criticized for his action.
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5. #OscarSoWhite
During the 2015 Oscars, April Reign started the hashtag #Oscarsowhite to protest the Academy’s decision not to select any people of color in the twenty actors nominated. Since the start of the hashtag, the academy has been put under more pressure to include more diversified people in every category.
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