The 97th Academy Awards, held on March 2, 2025, at Hollywood's Dolby Theatre, faced significant backlash due to multiple controversies, ranging from artificial intelligence use in filmmaking to social media scandals. While the Oscars celebrate artistic excellence, this year’s ceremony was clouded by debate, sparking concerns over its long-term reputation and audience retention.
AI Usage in The Brutalist Sparks Ethical Debate
Among the most debated issues this year was the increasing use of artificial intelligence in filmmaking. The Brutalist, a leading Oscar contender, came under fire for modifying actor Adrien Brody’s Hungarian dialogue using AI. Editor Dávid Jancsó revealed that AI tools from Respeecher were employed to adjust Brody and co-star Felicity Jones' pronunciation for authenticity. While the filmmakers defended their decision as a necessary efficiency measure, critics questioned whether AI-altered performances should qualify for major acting awards.
Karla Sofía Gascón Faces Backlash Over Offensive Social Media Posts
Best Actress nominee Karla Sofía Gascón (Emilia Pérez) faced intense scrutiny after past offensive social media posts resurfaced. The posts, which included criticisms of Islam, race, and even her co-stars, led to widespread public outcry. Gascón later apologized and deactivated her social media accounts, but Netflix distanced itself from her, shifting its Oscar campaign efforts toward co-star Zoe Saldana. Director Jacques Audiard also condemned Gascón, accusing her of harming the film's reputation.
Mikey Madison’s Intimacy Coordinator Controversy
Best Actress nominee Mikey Madison (Anora) reignited industry debates by opting out of using an intimacy coordinator for her film’s explicit scenes. While Madison explained that she preferred a minimal set for comfort, critics argued that intimacy coordinators ensure on-set safety, especially in films depicting sexual content. The debate highlighted broader industry conversations about evolving workplace standards in Hollywood.
Fernanda Torres’s Blackface Apology
Another nominee, Fernanda Torres (I'm Still Here), issued a public apology after a 17-year-old comedy sketch resurfaced in which she appeared in blackface. While Torres expressed regret and acknowledged that blackface is never acceptable, the controversy sparked renewed discussions on accountability and historical insensitivity in the entertainment industry.
Pamela Anderson’s Oscar Snub Draws Backlash
Despite earning a Golden Globe nomination for The Last Showgirl, Pamela Anderson was excluded from the Best Actress category at the Oscars. Fans expressed frustration on social media, considering the omission a major oversight. However, Anderson remained gracious, stating that the experience of making the film was rewarding enough.
Conan O’Brien’s Monologue Draws Mixed Reactions
Oscars host Conan O’Brien’s opening monologue did not escape controversy. While his sharp humor entertained some, his joke about Karla Sofía Gascón’s scandal—comparing the F-word count in Anora to the damage control surrounding her tweets—was met with divided reactions. Some found it bold and timely, while others deemed it inappropriate for a celebratory event.
Emilia Pérez Faces Criticism for Speech Omissions
Despite Emilia Pérez being notable for its inclusion of a transgender lead, none of the film’s winners acknowledged the transgender community in their acceptance speeches. This omission sparked disappointment among LGBTQ+ advocates, who felt that such a moment should have been used to uplift marginalized voices.
Michelle Trachtenberg Omitted from In Memoriam Segment
While AI and social media scandals took center stage, another moment in the ceremony drew widespread criticism. Fans were outraged when Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Gossip Girl star Michelle Trachtenberg was omitted from the In Memoriam tribute, despite passing away on February 26, 2025. Social media erupted with frustration, with many calling it a disrespectful oversight by the Academy.
Wildfires Impact Oscars Scheduling and Format
In an unexpected external factor, the recent wildfires in Southern California led to scheduling changes. Nomination announcements were delayed, and voting deadlines were extended. Additionally, the Academy decided not to feature live performances of the nominated songs as a tribute to affected communities. This decision, however, was met with backlash from the Society of Composers & Lyricists, who called it "extremely disrespectful" to the nominated artists.
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