The Oscars Most Popular Film category will not be a part of the 2019 event

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

Upon much reflection, and after enduring a considerable amount of backlash, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has decided not to include the new and controversial Most Popular Film category as part of its 2019 ceremony. Not long ago, the eyebrow-raising category was announced alongside a series of other changes set to be implemented as a part of the celebration going forward. Today, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has issued a statement regarding their desicion to scrap the new category, at least for the time being.

“The Academy recognized that implementing any new award nine months into the year creates challenges for films that have already been released,” said AMPAS, who also stated that they will be collecting "additional imput" on the matter, and will be discussing it much further before the proposed category finds a home at the annual event. “We have made changes to the Oscars over the years—including this year—and we will continue to evolve while also respecting the incredible legacy of the last 90 years,” said CEO Dawn Hudson, as part of a glaringly obvious back-pedal on the topic.

Of course, with the Most Popular Film category getting benched for the foreseeable, one now has to wonder if films like BLACK PANTHER and MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE: FALLOUT will become contenders for the show's Best Picture honors. While some might feel like it's a bit of a stretch to include a superhero or high-octane action offering as part of the coveted Best Picture category, the heat is now on for the Academy to start noninating outside the box. I mean, somethings got to boost their ratings, right?

You can read the Academy's full statement on the matter below:

While remaining committed to celebrating a wide spectrum of movies, the Academy announced today that it will not present the new Oscars® category at the upcoming 91st awards. The Academy recognized that implementing any new award nine months into the year creates challenges for films that have already been released. The Board of Governors continues to be actively engaged in discussions, and will examine and seek additional input regarding this category.

How do you feel about the Most Popular Film category being scrapped? Is there a way for genre films to enter the race without the need of a "crutch" category as a platform? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.

The 92nd Oscars telecast, along with its many changes, will take place on Sunday, February 9, 2020.