Oscars 2017: The Academy Apologizes for Best Picture Snafu, Vows to Investigate
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has finally Oscars, apologizing for the mix-up that accidentally awarded the Best Picture prize to "La La Land" instead of the actual winner, "Moonlight."
In the statement, the Academy said that accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers had taken full responsibility for the error, in which one of the two PwC representatives stationed backstage at the ceremony handed presenters Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway the wrong envelope. The Academy pledged to launch an investigation into the snafu, and also apologized to the filmmakers from both features, as well as Beatty and Dunaway and viewers at home.
Here's the full statement:
"We deeply regret the mistakes that were made during the presentation of the Best Picture category during last night's Oscar ceremony. We apologize to the entire cast and crew of La La Land and Moonlight whose experience was profoundly altered by this error. We salute the tremendous grace they displayed under the circumstances. To all involved — including our presenters Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway, the filmmakers, and our fans watching worldwide — we apologize.
For the last 83 years, the Academy has entrusted PwC to handle the critical tabulation process, including the accurate delivery of results. PwC has taken full responsibility for the breaches of established protocols that took place during the ceremony. We have spent last night and today investigating the circumstances, and will determine what actions are appropriate going forward. We are unwaveringly committed to upholding the integrity of the Oscars and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences."
No word yet on whether the Academy will drop PwC following this major mess-up. Stay tuned.
[via: Variety]