Oscars to ditch vaccine requirement for in-person attendees

On March 27, the ninety-fourth Academy Awards will be held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, with all the biggest Hollywood stars in attendance.

Unlike most other awards shows, however, attendees will not be mandated to show proof of vaccination.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, while the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences requires its employees to be vaccinated, movie stars attending the Oscars will only have to present a negative PCR or antigen test, regardless of vaccination status.

There has been speculation that such a decision was made to accommodate "more than a few high-profile industry figures," who would be barred from entry if proof of vaccination was required.

The Academy is technically following Los Angeles' latest COVID-19 policies, which state that, "All attendees at Indoor Mega Events (500+) must continue to show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative viral test result prior to entry."

Other awards shows have opted for more stringent measures that surpass even those recommended by authorities. The February 27 Screen Actors Guild Awards, for example, says that, "All ticketed attendees will be required to show proof of vaccination plus booster shot (if eligible), proof of negative lab-based COVID-19 PCR test within 48 hours of the event, and negative antigen (rapid) test the day of the event."

The SAG Awards is additionally requiring attendees to complete an on-site health screening, and wear N94 or N95 masks for the duration of the event. "Failure to comply," they say, "would result in denial or termination of your access within the premises."

According to The Hollywood Reporter, the March 13 Critics Choice Awards will also be going above and beyond official requirements. "I can’t invite people to a show where they’re not going to feel safe," said COO Joey Berlin.