Academy CEO Bill Kramer Looks to Future of The Oscars

Bill Kramer has been thinking about the future of the Oscars since he was named CEO of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences earlier this summer.

The former head of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures knows some things must change, that they have to evolve and grow their fanbase. But he’s optimistic: He’s already deep in talks with Oscars broadcaster ABC and potential producing partners and is committed to having a host again in 2023. And he’s especially ready to “move forward” from the slap and to have a show that celebrates cinema, he told a small group of reporters this week. At the Oscars earlier this year, Will Smith came on stage and slapped Chris Rock.

The show is immensely important not just for Hollywood but for the academy itself. The revenue from the Oscars accounts for well over half of the organization’s annual income. And it’s been under increasing scrutiny from both the public, for everything from its runtime to the kinds of films that get nominated, and its broadcasting partner for its ratings. Even academy members themselves have drawn criticism, most recently for the decision to present some of the awards before the live broadcast in an effort to streamline the show.

At the next Oscars in March 2023, Kramer said he wants to see “all crafts equitably acknowledged” on the show and that “there are many ways to do that.” It’s just one of the many topics being discussed with broadcaster ABC.