Story originally published in the May 5th edition of the Lion’s Tale

This year was the Oscars 93rd annual award show. Many families at home tune into watch, but on Hollywood’s biggest night of the year it was surprising the decline of viewers. In 2019 the show had a total of 29.6 million people watching at home, opposed to this year’s 9.85 million.

Even with the low views, the show must go on! Anthony Hopkins was awarded best actor in leading role for The Father, and best actor in a supporting role went to Daniel Kaluuya in Judas and the Black Messiah. Best actress went to Frances Mcdormand for Nomadland, and Yuh-jung Youn took home the award for best supporting actress for Minari.

One moment from the show that really got the crowd buzzing was the performance by R&B artist H.E.R., who performed ‘Fight For You’ from Judas and the Black Messiah, this track also winning the oscar for best original song from a movie. 

Something that gave the audience chills was the memorial for late actors and directors we’ve lost in the past few years. Many viewers were upset, saying “…this is beautiful but it is completely ruined by the speed of the video.” But others argued that the importance of honoring these fallen stars outweighed the presentation.

After disapproval and absence of diversity from past Oscars, this was the first time an all-black producing team was nominated for best picture. This is a huge step in our culture and works to show others that it doesn’t matter who you are, and that no matter your background, you can win an Oscar.