The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has been accused of intimidation by the Screen Actors Guild (Sag).
In a statement, Sag-Aftra has claimed that an “extraordinary and unwarranted pressure” is being placed on their members to appear on stage at this year’s Oscars without previously presenting at this month’s Sag awards.
“We have received multiple reports of these activities and have experienced firsthand the Academy’s graceless pressure tactics and attempts to control the awards show talent pipeline,” the statement reads. “Awards season is a very special time when actors and actresses are being appropriately celebrated and recognized for the outstanding quality of their work. We would expect the Academy to honor these goals.”
After Kevin Hart’s decision to stand down from presenting this year’s Oscars after homophobic tweets were unearthed, the producers have been aiming to secure a range of presenters for the ceremony, including rumours of an Avengers reunion.
But the search has apparently led to conflict. According to the Hollywood Reporter, trouble had also brewed between producers of the Oscars and the Golden Globes over securing talent.
“This self-serving intimidation of SAG-AFTRA members is meant to limit their opportunities to be seen and honor the work of their fellow artists throughout the season,” the statement continued to read. “Actors should be free to accept any offer to participate in industry celebrations. The apparent attempt by the Academy to keep our members from presenting on their own awards show is utterly outrageous and unacceptable. The SAG awards supports their union’s operations and important charitable assistance programs that provide valuable support to performers.”
There have been no confirmed presenters for this year’s Oscars but a source has claimed that Margot Robbie is one celebrity who picked the ceremony over the Golden Globes.
Oscar nominations are revealed next week, with prognosticators predicting a strong showing for A Star is Born, Roma, The Favourite, Green Book and Black Panther.
