NEW YORK – After reviewing the awards campaign for indie drama To Leslie, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences said Tuesday Andrea Riseborough will not be stripped of her Oscar nomination for best actress.
The star-studded grassroots campaign for Riseborough had sparked skepticism among some academy voters and caused a stir in Hollywood. On Friday, the academy said it would look into whether any rules had been broken. Shortly before the nominations, Riseborough was rushed into the running after a slew of celebrities hosted screenings of To Leslie and numerous A-listers promoted it on social media.
Following appeals from To Leslie director Michael Morris and his wife, actors Mary McCormack, Kate Winslet, Charlize Theron, Jennifer Aniston, Gwyneth Paltrow, Amy Adams and Courteney Cox held screenings of the film. Riseborough, a respected British actor, was unexpectedly catapulted into the Best Actress race despite the very small audience for To Leslie (about $27,000 at the box office).
“The Academy has determined that the activity in question is not of a level that the film’s nomination should be revoked,” said Bill Kramer, executive director of the Academy, in a statement. “However, we have uncovered social media and outreach campaign tactics that have given rise to concern. These tactics are discussed directly with those responsible.”
The academy has revoked nominations for campaigns that previously violated regulations. Celebrity-moderated screenings are a regular part of Oscar season, but how voters are contacted during Oscar voting is regulated. On Tuesday, the academy suggested Riseborough’s unorthodox campaign could necessitate changes to the constitution.
“In light of this review, it is evident that components of the regulations need to be clarified in order to create a better framework for respectful, inclusive and impartial campaigning,” Kramer said. “These changes will be made after this bonus cycle and shared with our members. The Academy strives to create an environment where voting is based solely on the artistic and technical merits of eligible films and performances.”
Critics of Riseborough’s campaign said it showed how a deep Rolodex could give a potential candidate a leg up. Above all exuberant Viola Davis (“Woman King”) and Danielle Deadwyler (“Till”) won best actress awards.
Along with Riseborough, are the nominees: Cate Blachett (“Tár”), Michelle Williams (“The Fabelmans”), Ana de Armas (“Blonde”) and Michelle Yeoh (“Everywhere at Once”).
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