Al Pacino Breaks Silence Over Bizarre Best Picture Announcement, Blames Oscars Producers

Al Pacino was trying to clarify his sudden announcement of 'Oppenheimer' as the best picture winner at the Academy Awards. In an interview on Monday, he said the producers had instructed him not to read the full list of nominees.

Following the 95th Academy Awards ceremony, there has been confusion surrounding veteran actor Al Pacino and his announcement of the Best Picture winner, 'Oppenheimer.'

Al Pacino Defends Oscars Presentation

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 10: Al Pacino speaks onstage during the 96th Annual Academy Awards at Dolby Theatre on March 10, 2024 in Hollywood, California.
(Photo : Kevin Winter/Getty Images)

Al Pacino, famous for his performances in classic movies like 'The Godfather' and 'Scent of a Woman,' received controversy for not recognizing all nominated films before announcing the winner.

Yet, Pacino quickly tackled the issue, highlighting that the decision was not his to make but instead came from the producers. Speaking to TMZ, Pacino explained that producers opted against listing all nominees individually as they had been showcased throughout the ceremony.

The actor clarified, "I just want to be clear it was not my intention to omit them, rather a choice by the producers not to have them said again since they were highlighted individually throughout the ceremony."

Pacino expressed his respect for the producers' wishes, stating, "I was honored to be a part of the evening and chose to follow the way they wished for this award to be presented."

The actor recognized the crucial role of nominations in the careers of artists and said that he felt compassion for people who thought that they were missed by the choice. The importance of recognition within the entertainment sector was brought up by him as he valued his great connections with the film industry, including actors, producers, and directors.

The Oscars ceremony, which was considered star-studded on a few occasions, came to a close with 'Oppenheimer' emerging as the night's most successful winner, earning seven trophies. Particular successes included the award for Best Picture, the award for Best Director, which went to Christopher Nolan, and the awards for the main and supporting actors, Cillian Murphy and Robert Downey Jr, according to Daily Mail.

Oscars Skip Nominee Announcements

The attack of Pacino's statement went beyond his delivery method, given the reality that social media was buzzing with discussion on the news. After the decision was made to forgo reading candidates for Best Picture and Original Song, there was a lot of controversy, and some viewers found it to be quite confusing.

Oscars producer Molly McNearney defended the choice, citing concerns about the ceremony's length. She expressed regret if the decision had placed Pacino in a difficult position, attributing the move to streamline the event's proceedings.

Jimmy Kimmel, the host of the show, made a hilarious remark about the unpredictability of live television in response to objections from viewers over Pacino's presentation style. Pacino isn't bothered by the attention that has been directed toward him, and he has announced that his memoir, titled 'Sonny Boy' will be released very soon.

This book will provide insights into his spectacular profession as well as his personal journey from the slums of New York to the pinnacle of fame in Hollywood.

As the spotlight fades on the Oscars controversy, Al Pacino's legacy endures, with 'Sonny Boy' poised to provide fans with an intimate glimpse into the life of a cinematic legend.