The Oscars, Hollywood’s most prestigious awards ceremony, have seen their fair share of controversies over the years. From shocking upsets to scandalous moments, the Academy Awards have often found themselves at the center of heated debates and discussions. Here, we take a look at 10 of the biggest controversies in Oscar history, spanning decades of glitz, glamour, and drama.
The Will Smith-Chris Rock Slap (2022)
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One of the most recent and talked-about controversies occurred during the 94th Academy Awards when actor Will Smith slapped comedian Chris Rock on stage. The incident, sparked by a joke made by Rock about Smith’s wife, sent shockwaves through Hollywood and dominated headlines for weeks.
“Crash” Upsets “Brokeback Mountain” (2006)
Image Credit: Lions Gate Films.
The upset victory of “Crash” over the critically acclaimed “Brokeback Mountain” for Best Picture in 2006 left many scratching their heads. The decision was widely criticized, with accusations of homophobia and political bias overshadowing the film’s win.
Roberto Benigni’s Wild Celebration (1999)
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Roberto Benigni’s exuberant antics upon winning the Best Foreign Language Film award for “Life is Beautiful” included climbing over seats and standing on chairs, which some found endearing while others labeled as inappropriate.
Citizen Kane Missing Best Picture (1942)
Image Credit: RKO Radio Pictures.
Despite being hailed as one of the greatest films ever made, Orson Welles’ “Citizen Kane” famously lost the Best Picture award to “How Green Was My Valley” at the 14th Academy Awards. Many critics and industry insiders still consider this decision one of the biggest snubs in Oscar history.
Charlie Chaplin’s Exile (1953)
Image Credit: Charles Chaplin Film Corporation.
Despite his immense contribution to cinema, Charlie Chaplin faced backlash and eventual exile from the United States during the height of McCarthyism, which overshadowed his honorary Oscar win in 1972.
Boycott Over Lack of Diversity (2016)
Image Credit: MSNBC.
The #OscarsSoWhite controversy gained traction in 2016 when all 20 acting nominations went to white actors for the second consecutive year, leading to widespread criticism and calls for boycotts from prominent figures within the industry.
Roman Polanski’s Best Director Win (2003)
Image Credit: Focus Features.
Roman Polanski’s win for Best Director at the 75th Academy Awards for “The Pianist” sparked controversy due to his past criminal charges, including fleeing the United States after pleading guilty to statutory rape.
Adrien Brody-Halle Berry Kiss (2003)
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Adrien Brody’s surprise kiss with Halle Berry upon winning the Best Actor award for “The Pianist” at the 75th Academy Awards stirred both excitement and criticism. While some saw it as a spontaneous and romantic gesture, others viewed it as inappropriate and disrespectful.
“La La Land” Announcement Error (2017)
Image Credit: Chris Pizzello.
The incorrect announcement of “La La Land” as the winner of Best Picture instead of the actual winner, “Moonlight,” caused chaos and confusion on stage, becoming one of the most memorable blunders in Oscar history.
Marlon Brando’s Boycott (1973)
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Marlon Brando’s decision to boycott the 45th Academy Awards ceremony in protest against Hollywood’s portrayal of Native Americans remains one of the most iconic moments of defiance in Oscar history. Instead of attending, Brando sent Native American activist Sacheen Littlefeather to decline his Best Actor award for “The Godfather” on his behalf, sparking both applause and criticism.