OSCARS 2021 MAY BE POSTPONED

COVID SHADOW: MANY FILMS DELAYED OR RELEASED ONLY ONLINE

LOS ANGELES: Next year’s Oscars could be postponed due to the disruption caused by the coronavirus in Hollywood, trade publication Variety reported on Tuesday. The movie industry’s biggest night is currently scheduled for February 28.

But with theatres shuttered, blockbusters delayed and productions halted, the prize-giving Academy has already been forced to make significant rules changes. One of multiple anonymous sources told Variety it was now “likely” the ceremony itself will be postponed.

No detailed discussions have yet taken place over moving the event, or potential new dates, the report said.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences did not immediately respond to AFP’s request for comment.

Last month, the Academy eased eligibility rules, allowing movies that skip the big screen this year to contend for Oscars. At the time, the body warned that “additional adjustments may be required”.