Oscars 2024 Botched Memoriam Segment Bashed by Viewers
Oscars 2024 in Memoriam segment is under fire for its controversial addition to this year's show, sparking backlash from viewers who found the inclusion of an interpretative dance inappropriate and distracting, according to Newsweek.
During the solemn tribute, which traditionally honors stars who passed away in the previous year, an interpretative dance unfolded on the Oscars' stage.
Accompanied by the singing of Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and his son, Matteo Bocelli, the routine drew criticism online, with many expressing disappointment over what they deemed a "tone-deaf" decision.
Viewers took to social media to voice their discontent, labeling the dance as "weird" and "distracting." Sarah Slothanova emphasized, "The dancers during in memoriam are weird and distracting," while Scott Faldon urged, "Show the people being honored in full screen!"
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Controversial Presentation Sparks Outrage
Hosted by Jimmy Kimmel, the ABC broadcast faced criticism for obstructing the view of the names and faces of the deceased stars with dancers and frequent shifts to the Bocelli performance.
The emotional Oscars 2024 in Memoriam segment was marred by complaints about the challenging visibility of the honorees, the New York Post noted.
One viewer expressed anger, stating, "The entire image should be the people who've died, not the dancers and the stage. You can barely see most of the names. An astronomical failure in presentation."
Another criticized it as the "most horrible In Memoriam ever," emphasizing the importance of a clearer display to honor the departed.
Despite the controversy, Andrea Bocelli and Matteo Bocelli performed "Time to Say Goodbye" alongside the interpretative dance.
However, the camera often focused on the entire stage, making it difficult for the audience at home to properly see the actors and filmmakers being remembered.
Suzanne Somers' Absence Sparks Outcry
The omission of Suzanne Somers from the Oscars 2024 in Memoriam segment added fuel to the criticism.
Fans were quick to notice the absence of notable stars, including Ron Cephas Jones, Treat Williams, Lance Reddick, and Somers.
Alan Hamel, Suzanne Somers' husband, issued a statement expressing understanding and appreciation for the fan response, per ET online.
"I respect the Academy's decision to not include Suzanne in Memoriam. Frankly, the outpouring from millions of her fans was the kind of In Memoriam Suzanne would have lovingly embraced," said Hamel, emphasizing Somers' significant impact on her fans and the media.
Somers, who passed away on October 15, 2023, due to metastasized breast cancer, was best known for her roles in "Three's Company" and "Step By Step."
While absent from the Oscars 2024 in Memoriam segment, she was honored in January during the 75th Emmy Awards segment, which also paid tribute to those overlooked at the Oscars.
The controversy surrounding the Oscars 2024 in Memoriam segment highlights the challenges of balancing artistic performances with the solemnity of remembering those who have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
As the debate continues, the Academy faces scrutiny for its choices in presenting this important annual tribute.
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This article is owned by Latin Post.
Written by: Bert Hoover
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