The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences won't be rolling out their controversial Outstanding Achievement in Popular Film category at the next ceremony.
"There has been a wide range of reactions to the introduction of a new award, and we recognize the need for further discussion with our members," said Academy CEO Dawn Hudson in a statement. "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."
The Academy's press release also added that announcing the award category nine months into the year "created challenges for films that have already been released." Now, the Academy announced plans to "examine and seek additional input regarding the new category."
The category was introduced afterBlack Panther earned massive success, leading critics to demand it win an Oscar for Best Costume Design or Best Picture, among other awards.
The Oscars are also known for decades of snubbing popular movies like Saving Private Ryan, ET: The Extra Terrestrial, Pulp Fiction, Do the Right Thing, and The Color Purple. Thus, the latest move for the popular film category was seen as a cop-out where the Academy could award a film but not give it a coveted Best Picture win.
Others think that by getting rid of the popular film category, the Academy is purposely trying to keep Black Panther from getting an Oscar.
Either way, it should be an interesting award ceremony—especially if the #OscarsSoWhite tradition continues. The 91st Academy Awards ceremony is slated to air on Feb. 24, 2019.
