News: Oscars to Shift Focus Starting in 91st Award Show





The Oscars have announced some big changes starting with next years awards. After having thier lowest rated year in history, the Oscars have decided to shift focus to the awards most viewers are interested in. This means that the lesser anticipated awards will be given during commercial breaks and edited together to show later in the broadcast.

The biggest announcement, and I might add long overdue, is the addition of a Popular Film category. This means that fan favorites might actually get some attention for both the film makers and the stars of the films. This is something I know a lot of the people who really cherish the approach of the show might be upset, but could drive in much bigger audiences.
The full text of the message follows:
Dear Member,
Last night, the Board of Governors met to elect new board officers, and discuss and approve significant changes to the Oscars telecast.
The Board of Governors, staff, Academy members, and various working groups spent the last several months discussing improvements to the show.
Tonight, the Board approved three key changes:
1. A three-hour Oscars telecast
We are committed to producing an entertaining show in three hours, delivering a more accessible Oscars for our viewers worldwide.
To honor all 24 award categories, we will present select categories live, in the Dolby Theatre, during commercial breaks (categories to be determined). The winning moments will then be edited and aired later in the broadcast. 
2. New award category
We will create a new category for outstanding achievement in popular film. Eligibility requirements and other key details will be forthcoming. 
3. Earlier airdate for 92nd Oscars
The date of the 92nd Oscars telecast will move to Sunday, February 9, 2020, from the previously announced February 23. The date change will not affect awards eligibility dates or the voting process.
The 91st Oscars telecast remains as announced on Sunday, February 24, 2019.
We have heard from many of you about improvements needed to keep the Oscars and our Academy relevant in a changing world. The Board of Governors took this charge seriously.
We are excited about these steps, and look forward to sharing more details with you.
John Bailey and Dawn Hudson