Will the Oscars Have a Host Next Year? The Debate Continues
The upcoming 2023 Academy Awards is expected to have another familiar face behind the hosting desk, as Jimmy Kimmel sets to take the stage for his third time hosting the event. This decision comes in the wake of the 2017 incident involving Will Smith and Chris Rock, where a slip of the tongue disrupted the proceedings. Kimmel, known for his witty and humorous approach, seems like a safer choice to manage the show.
Jimmy Kimmel's Return and the No-Host Era
Kimmel will be hosting for the first time since 2018, and notably, it marks the first time the Oscars feature a solo host since 2018. The previous year saw the show enjoying a triumvirate of hosts: Regina Hall, Amy Schumer, and Wanda Sykes. Given the history of the Oscars and the potential for controversy, it remains to be seen whether the industry is heading back to hosting traditions.
Arguments for and Against a Host
The move to eliminate a host is a subject of debate. On one side, advocates argue that the omission of a host could lead to a more professional and less chaotic event. However, critics point out that whenever a host is chosen, it often leads to a misstep or controversy, as seen with previous hosts. Additionally, the lack of diversity in Hollywood can make it difficult to find someone willing to take on the role.
Jimmy Kimmel's hosting style, marked by his humor and cool-headedness, appears to be a safe bet. However, whether he'll be able to navigate the complex issues that could arise remains to be seen. The 2017 incident involving Will Smith serves as a stark reminder of the potential for unexpected and controversial moments on stage.
Other News in the Creative Industry
While the Oscars' hosting dilemma captures the attention of the entertainment world, there are other significant events and shifts happening within the creative industry. For instance, the recent
Gotham Film Grants have awarded several projects, highlighting the importance of supporting independent films during the award season.
In another noteworthy development, the labor disputes between the United Auto Workers (UAW) and General Motors (GM) have resulted in a tentative agreement that includes pay raises and new benefits for workers. This agreement represents a significant step forward for labor relations in the auto industry. The deal also stipulates that UAW will not hinder GM's plans to close several plants in the US, marking a compromise that could reshuffle the American manufacturing landscape.
The tech giants are also making waves in the news industry. Facebook is set to roll out a news service tailored to American users, combining personalized news with a local news section. This move could have a substantial impact on the way people consume news and could challenge traditional media outlets.
In related news, ongoing legal battles over the release of materials from the Special Counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation loom large. House Democrats have launched a legal battle to gain access to redacted Mueller evidence, with the White House deferring to a decision by William P. Howells, who will now drive the Department of Justice's (DOJ) response to these requests. This political maneuver highlights the complex interplay between political power and investigative journalism in the modern era.