The excitement for the 97th Academy Awards is building as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences unveils another group of high-profile presenters. Among the names announced are acclaimed performers Selena Gomez, Ana de Armas, and industry titan Oprah Winfrey, all set to take the stage on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood.
This star-studded lineup joins previously confirmed presenters such as Halle Berry, Cillian Murphy, and Robert Downey Jr., creating anticipation for what promises to be another unforgettable night celebrating cinematic excellence. Notable talents like Joe Alwyn, Willem Dafoe, and Lily-Rose Depp have also been added to the list, showcasing the Academy's effort to bring together top figures across the entertainment spectrum.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang have asserted the awards ceremony's dedication to community support following devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Their statement reflects the heavy losses experienced by many and emphasizes the Academy’s unifying role within the film industry.
The event marks the continuation of tradition, wherein last year’s award winners return to present the same categories to this year’s nominees. Emma Stone, who won Best Actress for her role in Poor Things, alongside Cillian Murphy, who secured Best Actor for Oppenheimer, and Da’Vine Joy Randolph, awarded Best Supporting Actress for The Holdovers, will present the coveted statuettes anew.
This year, the race for Oscar glory sees Emilia Perez leading the nominations with 13 nods, followed closely by The Brutalist and Conclave, gaining ten and eight nominations, respectively. The competition not only highlights narrative brilliance but also showcases the diverse storytelling within Hollywood.
The Academy has taken steps to address rumors about canceling the event due to the fires, reaffirming the commitment to proceed with the awards, underscoring their importance as a hallmark of the film industry. "We are all devastated by the impact of the fires and the losses experienced by so many. The Academy stands together with our community and looks forward to celebrating our shared passion for film," Kramer and Yang stated.
Viewers can expect to see familiar faces at the ceremony, with presentations from previous winners adding to the prestige of the event. Other announced presenters include Goldie Hawn, who made her mark winning Oscars for her iconic performances, and Emmy-winning actor Sterling K. Brown.
Completing the list are celebrated personalities such as Connie Nielsen and the comedic genius Nick Offerman, who will announce the winners, alongside Conan O’Brien, who is set to host the festivities. With acclaimed talent behind the scenes and on stage, the event is poised to deliver not just awards but memorable moments and engaging entertainment.
The Academy Awards remain one of the most anticipated entertainment events globally, showcasing the peak of filmmaking talent and artistry. Amidst severe controversies concerning films like Emilia Perez due to social media backlash against some cast members, the stakes are higher than ever. Yet, the Academy promises glamour, humor, and excitement as they honor the year's best films, solidifying Oscars' position as the pinnacle of cinematic achievement.
With the ceremony just weeks away, fans and cinephiles alike eagerly await to see who takes home the esteemed gold statuette, alongside witnessing Ana de Armas and other high-profile presenters grace the stage, adding to the grandeur of this prestigious event. This year’s awards, hosted by O’Brien and featuring vibrant presentations from esteemed artists, is set to be celebratory and reflective of the industry’s resilience.