The Oscars are known for celebrating some of the biggest moments in film, but not every performance gets equal attention. Year after year, certain genres and actors seem to dominate the spotlight, while others quietly get passed over.
In Hollywood, the conversation around who gets recognized—and who doesn’t—has always sparked debate, with fans and industry insiders weighing in on what it really takes to earn a nomination. Now, Amy Poehler weighed in on the ongoing conversation.
The Academy Skips Comedy, Amy Poehler Says It’s Unfair
On a recent episode of her podcast “Good Hang with Amy Poehler,” the actress didn’t hold back about the Oscars’ treatment of comedy. Speaking with guest Olivia Colman, Poehler said, “Every single year at the Oscars, everybody (in comedy) gets blanked, and all the serious people get up and accept and accept and accept. It’s some hot bulls**t, because comedy is not easy.” Her frustration highlights a long-standing sentiment in Hollywood: while dramatic performances often dominate awards season, comedic talent is frequently overlooked.
Comedies like the recently released “Naked Gun” legacy sequel have been earning widespread praise, even from critics who are usually tough on the genre. Its positive reception has sparked conversations about whether comedic films might finally get more attention from Academy voters.
This potential shift in perspective follows an edition in which horror films such as “The Substance,” “Nosferatu,” and “Alien: Romulus” received notable praise, suggesting that the Academy may be broadening its definition of award-worthy cinema. With this trend, comedy could be next in line for overdue recognition.
For Poehler, the conversation goes beyond trophies. She emphasizes that comedy requires skill, timing, and nuance, and dismissing it year after year undervalues the effort of performers who make audiences laugh just as profoundly as dramatic actors move them to tears.