With its star-studded red carpet arrivals to iconic speeches, Oscars night has a reputation for delivering on spectacle and awe. And among the show’s many traditions are the stunning musical performances that honor the best original song nominees. But this year’s ceremony will have a major change that we have a feeling viewers won't be happy about.
For the first time in 80 years, the Academy has opted to forgo the musical performances for the Oscar-nominated songs from Elton John: Never Too Late, The Six Triple Eight, Emilia Pérez and Sing Sing.
Why won’t there be original song performances at the Oscars in 2025?
In January, Variety reported that the Academy's CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang revealed details about the upcoming 97th Oscars ceremony in a letter sent to members. In addition to stating that the show will serve as a tribute to the resilience of the film industry and Hollywood following the devastation of the Los Angeles wildfires earlier this year, Kramer and Yang also stated that there wouldn't be original song performances.
“This year, the best original song category presentation will move away from live performances and will be focused on the songwriters," according to The Hollywood Reporter. “We will celebrate their artistry through personal reflections from the teams who bring these songs to life. All of this, and more, will uncover the stories and inspiration behind this year’s nominees.”
While many viewers may be surprised by the news, the songwriters themselves have also expressed discontent with the decision. In mid-February, Diane Warren, who is nominated for "The Journey" from the film The Six Triple Eight, referred to the change as “frustrating,” Entertainment Weekly reported.
“Everybody loves to hear the songs. You want to hear these artists sing these songs that were integral to the movies," she said, according to the outlet. "Music is so important to film, and these songs are very important to the movies they're in. It's frustrating to all of us."
Despite the decision, the show will not be without musical performances all together. "There is so much more in store, including powerful musical moments that connect film’s rich history to its bold and inspiring future," the letter said.
Earlier this week, it was reported that Wicked stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are set to perform songs from the film. Doja Cat, Lisa of Blackpink, Queen Latifah and Raye will also be taking part in a performance.
Hosted by comedian Conan O'Brien, the Oscars will air live on ABC, and stream on Hulu on Sunday, March 2, at 7 p.m. EST.
Cameron (she/her) is a staff writer for Good Housekeeping, where she covers everything from holidays to food. She is a graduate of Syracuse University, where she received a B.A. in magazine journalism. In her spare-time she can be found scrolling TikTok for the latest cleaning hacks and restaurant openings, binge-watching seasons of Project Runway or online shopping.
