Oscars 2021: Show With In-Person Components at Multiple Locations

For several years in the 1950s, starting in 1952, Oscar night featured simultaneous gatherings in Los Angeles and New York. One can imagine something similar happening this year — maybe even including cities outside of the U.S. like London and Paris, since the Academy’s membership is now truly international — to spare people from having to undertake long-distance travel and to allow for social distancing at each venue.

It is perhaps a reflection of the Academy’s need to hold its annual Oscars ceremony — in partnership with ABC — that is the organization’s primary generator of revenue to cover its year-round costs.

It was announced in December that Steven Soderbergh, Stacey Sher and Jesse Collins will produce the telecast.

“In this unique year that has asked so much of so many, the Academy is determined to present an Oscars like none other, while prioritizing the public health and safety of all those who will participate,” an Academy spokesperson said. “To create the in-person show our global audience wants to see, while adapting to the requirements of the pandemic, the ceremony will broadcast live from multiple locations, including the landmark Dolby Theatre. We look forward to sharing more details soon.”