The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to prevent another potential controversy at this year’s Oscars. In an interview with Time magazine, CEO Bill Kramer revealed that the Academy has established a “whole crisis team” to manage any unforeseeable events. Kramer explained that the presence of a seasoned host like Jimmy Kimmel on stage can help manage unexpected moments. However, the crisis team has been put in place to provide additional support and to handle any possible challenges.

The Academy’s decision to set up a crisis team comes on the heels of the Will Smith-Chris Rock slapgate incident at last year’s 94th Academy Awards. Chris Rock made a joke about Will Smith’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith, and her shaved head due to a condition called alopecia. This caused Smith to slap Rock and yell, “Keep my wife’s name out of your f*****g mouth.” The altercation was a public relations disaster for the Academy and left many questioning their ability to manage high-pressure situations.

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Following the slap incident, Will Smith issued a public apology to the Academy and nominees. He also posted a public apology on Instagram, where he addressed Chris Rock, the Williams family, and the Academy. Smith won Best Actor for his portrayal of Richard Williams, father of tennis stars Venus and Serena. Despite his apologies, the actor was banned from attending the Oscars for the next decade, and the Academy took disciplinary action against him.

In light of the slapgate incident and its aftermath, the Academy has taken a proactive approach to prevent similar incidents from occurring. The establishment of a crisis team is a testament to their commitment to ensuring the smooth running of the ceremony. Kramer emphasized that they have made preparations for all possible scenarios, having run through numerous simulations to ensure that they are ready to manage any situation that might arise.

The crisis team’s presence is an indication of the Academy’s dedication to their stakeholders and their commitment to managing the Oscars with the utmost professionalism. The 95th Academy Awards will take place on March 12 at Los Angeles’ Dolly Theatre, and the crisis team will be on hand to ensure that the event runs smoothly and without incident.

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With their proactive approach and well-planned preparations, the Academy is positioning itself to manage any unexpected occurrences and maintain the integrity of the ceremony.