OSCARS® 2015 - February

February 20, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SERGIO MENDES AND WILL.I.AM TO PERFORM AT

GOVERNORS BALL ON OSCAR® SUNDAY

LOS ANGELES, CA – Grammy® Award-winning artists Sergio Mendes and will.i.am are set to take the stage at the Governors Ball, the Academy’s official post-Oscars® celebration, on Oscar Sunday, February 22. They will perform for the Ball’s 1,500 guests, which will include Oscar winners and nominees, show presenters and performers, and other luminaries.

Mendes, a renowned producer, composer, keyboardist and vocalist, has been a force on the international music scene for more than five decades and continues to evolve creatively through new collaborations and media. One of the most successful Brazilian artists of all time, Mendes became familiar to American audiences with the album “Herb Alpert Presents Sergio Mendes & Brasil ’66,” which was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2012. He has recorded more than 40 albums, won one Grammy and two Latin Grammy Awards, and earned a 2011 Oscar nomination for the original song “Real In Rio” from the animated feature film “Rio.” He currently is composing and producing music for several film and album projects, and still tours worldwide.

Los Angeles native will.i.am is a global music artist and tech entrepreneur who has earned seven Grammys, an Emmy®, two CLIOs, two NAACP Image Awards and several other honors for his creative and philanthropic work. He came to prominence as the front man for The Black Eyed Peas, whose multi-platinum albums include “The E.N.D.” and “Monkey Business.” His most recent album, “#willpower,” includes several guest artist collaborations in a fusion of hip-hop, R&B, and electronic/dance music. In addition to writing or performing songs for such animated features as “Rio 2,” “Rio” and “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa,” will.i.am voiced characters in all three films and played supporting roles in “Date Night” and “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.”

The Governors Ball performance will feature songs from Mendes’s Latin Grammy-winning “Timeless” album, which was produced by will.i.am and featured such artists as Justin Timberlake, John Legend, The Black Eyed Peas and Stevie Wonder.

The Governors Ball will be held in the Ray Dolby Ballroom on the top level of the Hollywood & Highland Center®.

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

WATCH ABC'S "THE OSCARS® BACKSTAGE" TO STREAM LIVE

ON FACEBOOK FOR THE FIRST TIME

Video Highlights of The Oscars® will post to Facebook and Oscar.com directly after they air. Recently added Social Features on WATCH ABC Provide Seamless Social Fan Experience

The Oscars Backstage Hosts This Year Include “Good Morning America’s” Weekend Edition Co-Anchor Paula Faris, Fusion Host Pedro Andrade, Entertainment and Sports Reporter Chris Connelly, Yahoo Fashion Correspondent Nick Axelrod and “How To Get Away With Murder’s” Matt McGorry

The Academy. ABC Entertainment and Facebook are partnering to make this year's The Oscars Backstage on WATCH ABC the most "Likeable" ever. Beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, the curated "Director's Cut" feed from the award-winning The Oscars Backstage – which delivers three channels of live video feeds from over 20 cameras throughout the Dolby Theater to WATCH ABC for desktop and mobile devices - will also stream on the ABC Network's Facebook Page and be part of the Facebook Trending Oscars experience (www.facebook.com/oscars), which gives fans one place to connect in real time as they watch the night unfold.

“We’re excited to bring viewers backstage and provide exclusive access to all those memorable, talked-about Oscar moments – the ones that happen on stage as well as the stories that play out behind-the-scenes,” said Christina Kounelias, Chief Marketing Officer, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

“We know that a large percentage of people – 70 percent of tablet and smartphone owners – are on their devices while watching TV," said Albert Cheng, EVP and Chief Product Officer, Digital Media, Disney/ABC Television Group. "The Oscars Backstage on WATCH ABC provides them with an unparalleled social experience around Hollywood's biggest night. And thanks to our ongoing partnerships with MPVDs, including today's launch of WATCH ABC with DirecTV, and this year’s arrangement with Facebook, we’re able to deliver it to more people than ever before.”

On the red carpet, ABC will incorporate exclusive, real-time Facebook data of the most buzzed about nominees during the pre-show. In addition, fans will be able to ask questions of their favorite nominees via the “Good Morning America” Facebook page, with the potential to see their question answered live on the red carpet.

Embeddable video clips of the most memorable moments of the awards show – including all musical performances - will be posted almost immediately after they air to Oscar.com/Video, with a selection of those also being shared on the Facebook pages. Additionally, this is the first year that The Oscars and The Oscars Backstage will stream with the recently launched WATCH ABC features "Social Lens" and "FastShare," which provide fans with an even more personalized social experience.

TIME INC.’S ‘PEOPLE’ PARTNERS WITH THE ACADEMY TO HOST 3rd

ANNUAL OSCAR® FAN EXPERIENCE

(NEW YORK, February 19, 2015) - PEOPLE, the No. 1 celebrity and entertainment brand, has partnered with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to present the 2015 Oscar Fan Experience on Sunday, February 22nd. The PEOPLE Oscar Fan Experience treats red carpet and movie buffs around the world with unprecedented access to Oscar’s big day. 700 fans including PEOPLE VIP subscribers were selected to watch and cheer nominees, presenters and film’s biggest stars with a full day Oscar experience on the most anticipated red carpet of the year. As the telecast begins, PEOPLE Oscar Fan Experience guests will be whisked away for an exclusive viewing party at the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles.

“PEOPLE is excited to partner for the third consecutive year with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences,” said Karen Kovacs, Publisher, PEOPLE. “The Oscar Fan Experience provides PEOPLE’s VIP subscribers access to the best seats in the house – right on the red carpet with their favorite celebrities.”

The 87th Oscars® will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars®, produced by Craig Zadan and Neil Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

Fans can visit PEOPLE.com and Oscar.com for unprecedented access into this year’s Oscars.

February 17, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TERRENCE HOWARD AND FELICITY JONES

TO PRESENT AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA— Oscar®-nominated actor Terrence Howard (2006) and Oscar nominee Felicity Jones will be presenters at this year’s Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

Howard was nominated for his leading role in 2006’s “Hustle & Flow.” His other films include Oscar-winning Best Picture “Crash” (2004), “Ray” (2004), “Iron Man” (2008), “Prisoners” (2013), “Lee Daniel’s The Butler” (2013) and “St. Vincent” (2014). Howard currently stars in the hit television series “Empire.” His upcoming films include “Term Life” and “Cardboard Boxer.”

Jones is nominated for Actress in a Leading Role for “The Theory of Everything.” Her previous film credits include “The Tempest” (2010), “Like Crazy” (2011), “The Invisible Woman” (2013) and “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” (2014). Jones’ upcoming films include “True Story,” “Autobahn,” “A Monster Calls” and “Inferno.”

Oscar presenters and performers include:

Presenters:

Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Jason Bateman, Cate Blanchett, Jessica Chastain, Marion Cotillard, Benedict Cumberbatch, Viola Davis, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Idris Elba, Ansel Elgort, Chris Evans, Kevin Hart, Terrence Howard, Josh Hutcherson, Scarlett Johansson, Dakota Johnson, Felicity Jones, Nicole Kidman, Jennifer Lopez, Jared Leto, Shirley MacLaine, Matthew McConaughey, Sienna Miller, Chloë Grace Moretz, Eddie Murphy, Liam Neeson, Lupita Nyong’o, David Oyelowo, Gwyneth Paltrow, Chris Pine, Chris Pratt, Margot Robbie, Zoe Saldana, Octavia Spencer, Meryl Streep, Channing Tatum, Miles Teller, John Travolta, Kerry Washington, Naomi Watts, Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon.

Performers:

Jack Black, Common, Jennifer Hudson, Anna Kendrick, Lady Gaga, John Legend, Adam Levine with Maroon 5, Tim McGraw, Rita Ora and Tegan and Sara with The Lonely Island.

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

FEBRUARY 16, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ACADEMY UNVEILS “OSCARS® CREATORS”

Seven of the world’s most talented social media artists invited

to creatively explore Oscar® Week as part of the

“Imagine What’s Possible” campaign

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Academy today announced a unique Oscars social media campaign where seven artists from platforms including Instagram, Tumblr and Vine will cover the excitement of Oscar Week events through their own creative perspective. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

Throughout Oscar Week and on Oscar Sunday, the artists will create and share their work with fans through their personal social media accounts. The Academy will share each individual piece through its social channels as well.

"There are amazing artists working on social media platforms and we're creating an opportunity for them to experience the Oscars and share their perspective on this incredible event with the world," said Josh Spector, the Academy's Managing Director of Digital Media & Marketing. "Instagram, Tumblr and Vine are home to so much creative talent and they were the perfect partners to help bring this to life."

The Oscars Creators include:

• Kyle Huber – An Instagram graphic designer and photographer who explores beautiful landscapes and remarkable exteriors.

• Zach King – A Vine filmmaker known for his “magic Vines” and digital sleight of hand.

• Paul Octavious – An Instagram photographer, artist and dynamic visual storyteller.

• Sarah Palmer – A one-of-a-kind Instagram photographer who composes her own unique world.

• Lauren Randolph – A portrait photographer from Tumblr with an eye for capturing the human spirit.

• Anthony Samaniego – A photographer and GIF artist from Tumblr known for his dazzling cityscapes and other unique perspectives.

• Blake Wilson – A Vine filmmaker better known as “BatDad,” who captures his superhero moments with his suburban family.

Follow along with the campaign throughout Oscar Week through the Academy’s social media channels:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheAcademy

Instagram: http://instagram.com/theacademy

Tumblr: http://theacademy.tumblr.com/

Twitter: http://twitter.com/theacademy

Hashtag: #OscarsCreators

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

87TH OSCARS POOL FEEDS INFORMATION

POOL FEEDS (OFF-SITE AVAILABILITY)

Pool Feed information for the 87th Oscars® may be found below.

Pool feeds are being made available via fiber and satellite as [1080i/59.94 HD].

AT&T Telco Circuit #1: 30.TRGS.800500-001PT

1080i/59.94 HD

Arrivals B-roll, followed by interview room activities and then Governors Ball B-roll footage is provided on this circuit. The feed will begin at approximately 3:00pm (1500PT).

AT&T Telco Circuit #2: 30.TRGS.800501-001PT

1080i/59.94 HD

Arrivals fashion B-roll footage will be available on this circuit. The feed will begin at approximately 3:00pm (1500PT) and conclude at 5:30pm (1730PT).

Satellite (Uplink of AT&T Circuit #1)

Satellite: Galaxy 17 (91W), Transponder 13K, Lower

Video: HD 1080i/59.94 – 4:2:0 – MPEG2

Bandwidth: 18 MHz

Downlink Freq: 11951 Horizontal

Modulation: DVBS, QPSK

FEC: 5/6

Symbol Rate: 14.0 Msym/s

Data Rate: 21.504 Mbps

Audio 1: PGM

Audio 2: PGM

The arrivals b-roll and interview room activities are provided on this satellite feed. Depending on the end time of the show and the time at which the last winner leaves the interview room, there may also be Governors Ball footage available, but this is not guaranteed. The feed will take place from 3:00pm (1500PT) to11:30pm (2330PT).

Satellite (Uplink of AT&T Circuit #2)

Satellite: Galaxy 17 (91W), Transponder 13K, Upper

Video: HD 1080i/59.94 – 4:2:0 – MPEG2

Bandwidth: 18 MHz

Downlink Freq: 11969 Horizontal

Modulation: DVBS, QPSK

FEC: 5/6

Symbol Rate: 14.0 Msym/s

Data Rate: 21.504 Mbps

Audio 1: PGM

Audio 2: PGM

Arrivals fashion B-roll footage will be available on this satellite feed. This feed will be up beginning at 3:00pm (1500PT) and will conclude at 5:30pm (1730PT).

Credential opportunities for this event are now closed. We are unable to approve any additional requests for on-site media access.

February 13, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BEST ACTRESS OSCAR® WINNERS – HALLE BERRY, SANDRA BULLOCK, NICOLE KIDMAN AND REESE WITHERSPOON – TO PRESENT

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Academy Award® winners Halle Berry, Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman and Reese Witherspoon will present on the Oscar telecast, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. All four have previously won the award for Best Actress.

Berry won the award for her performance in "Monster's Ball" (2001), Bullock for "The Blind Side" (2009), Kidman for "The Hours" (2002) and Witherspoon for "Walk the Line" (2005).

Berry, Bullock, Kidman and Witherspoon join a stellar list of previously announced Oscar presenters including Mark Wahlberg, Ted and "Marvel's The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; "Chicago" cast members Richard Gere, Queen Latifah, Renée Zellweger and Catherine Zeta-Jones; special guests Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron; and performers Adele, Dame Shirley Bassey, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand.

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24 at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

ABOUT CRAIG ZADAN AND NEIL MERON

Craig Zadan and Neil Meron are producers of critically acclaimed and award-winning feature films, television movies, series, and Broadway productions. Their feature films include The Bucket List, Footloose, Hairspray, and Chicago, which won six Academy Awards including one for “Best Picture.” For television, they’ve produced films of “Steel Magnolias,” ”Life with Judy Garland,” and “A Raisin in the Sun,” among many others and the series “Smash” and “Drop Dead Diva.” They recently returned to their roots in live theater by producing Broadway revivals of the Tony-winning ”Promises, Promises” and the Tony-winning 50th Anniversary revival of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

February 13, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JASON BATEMAN, IDRIS ELBA, ANSEL ELGORT, NICOLE KIDMAN,

LIAM NEESON, GWYNETH PALTROW AND CHANNING TATUM

TO PRESENT AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA—Jason Bateman, Idris Elba, Ansel Elgort, Nicole Kidman, Liam Neeson, Gwyneth Paltrow and Channing Tatum will be presenters at this year’s Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

Bateman appeared in the Best Picture Oscar®- nominated films “Up in the Air” (2009) and “Juno” (2007). Most recently Bateman starred in the “Horrible Bosses” (2011 and 2014) franchise, “This Is Where I Leave You” (2014), and “Bad Words” (2013), Bateman’s directorial debut. He is currently working on “Untitled Joel Edgerton Project” and recently wrapped production of “The Family Fang,” his second directorial effort in which he also stars.

Elba most recently starred in the 2014 thriller “No Good Deed.” His other film roles include “28 Weeks Later” (2007), “Thor” (2011), “Pacific Rim” (2013) and “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom” (2013). He has been nominated for four Emmy Awards®, including three for Lead Actor in a Miniseries or a Movie for “Luther” (2010). Elba will next be seen in “Beasts of No Nation.”

Elgort made his film debut in 2013’s “Carrie” and followed up with three more films in 2014: “The Fault in Our Stars,” “Divergent” and “Men, Women & Children.” He will next be seen in the sequel “The Divergent Series: Insurgent.”

Kidman won an Oscar for Actress in a Leading Role for “The Hours” (2002) and was nominated for her leading roles in “Moulin Rouge” (2001) and “Rabbit Hole” (2010). Her other credits include “Dead Calm” (1989), “Far and Away” (1992), “Eyes Wide Shut” (1999), “Cold Mountain” (2003) and “The Golden Compass” (2007). Her upcoming films include “Lion” and “The Secret in Their Eyes.”

Neeson received an Oscar nomination for Actor in a Leading Role for his performance as the title character in “Schindler’s List” (1993). Other film roles include “The Dead Pool” (1988), “Husbands and Wives” (1992), “Michael Collins” (1996), “Love Actually” (2003), “Taken” (2008), “The Grey” (2011) and “Non-Stop” (2014). He will next be seen in “Ted 2” and “Run All Night.”

Paltrow is an Oscar winner for her leading role in “Shakespeare in Love” (1998). She has starred in such films as “Great Expectations” (1998), “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (1999), and “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001) and most recently the “Iron Man” franchise (2008, 2010 and 2013).

Tatum, who currently stars in the sci-fi feature “Jupiter Ascending,” appeared in last year’s “22 Jump Street” (2014), “Foxcatcher” (2014) and “The Lego Movie” (2014). His previous credits include “White House Down” (2013), “Magic Mike” (2012) and “21 Jump Street” (2012). He will star in “Magic Mike XXL” later this year.

Previously announced presenters and performers include:

Presenters:

Ben Affleck, Jennifer Aniston, Cate Blanchett, Jessica Chastain, Marion Cotillard, Benedict Cumberbatch, Viola Davis, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Chris Evans, Kevin Hart, Josh Hutcherson, Scarlett Johansson, Dakota Johnson, Jennifer Lopez, Jared Leto, Shirley MacLaine, Matthew McConaughey, Sienna Miller, Chloë Grace Moretz, Eddie Murphy, Lupita Nyong’o, David Oyelowo, Chris Pine, Chris Pratt, Margot Robbie, Zoe Saldana, Octavia Spencer, Meryl Streep, Miles Teller, John Travolta, Kerry Washington, Naomi Watts, Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon.

Performers:

Jack Black, Common, Jennifer Hudson, Lady Gaga, Anna Kendrick, John Legend, Adam Levine with Maroon 5, Tim McGraw, Rita Ora and Tegan and Sara with The Lonely Island.

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

February 12, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

HOLLYWOOD STREET CLOSURES FOR 2013 OSCAR® WEEK

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – To ensure public safety, support security strategies and facilitate the production of this year’s Oscars®, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the City of Los Angeles have finalized street closure plans around the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood.

To accommodate the construction of press risers, fan bleachers and pre-show stages along the Oscars red carpet, Hollywood Boulevard will be closed between Highland Avenue and Orange Drive beginning at 10 p.m. on Sunday, February 17, and remain closed until 6 a.m. on Tuesday, February 26.

MTA subway trains will bypass the Hollywood & Highland station after the last regularly scheduled train on Saturday, February 23, until 6 a.m. Monday, February 25. Service at the station will resume with the first scheduled train after 6 a.m.

Between Sunday, February 17, and Oscar Sunday, February 24, additional streets and sidewalks will be closed for varying periods.

Details of the closures and maps of affected areas are available from the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, the Sixth and the Thirteenth District City Council field offices and on the Academy's website at www.oscars.org/closures.

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane. The Oscar presentation will be televised live on the ABC Television Network and in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go toOscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

PEOPLE MAGAZINE PARTNERS WITH THE ACADEMY

TO HOST THIS YEAR'S OSCAR® FAN EXPERIENCE

NEW YORK, February 12, 2013 – PEOPLE, the No. 1 celebrity and entertainment brand, has partnered with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to present the 2013 Oscar Fan Experience on Oscar Sunday, February 24. The Oscar Fan Experience celebrates movie buffs around the world by giving selected guests access to Oscar's big day like they have never experienced before. After receiving more than 20,000 submissions, 700 fans were selected to watch and cheer nominees, presenters and film's biggest stars as they arrive on the most anticipated red carpet of the year. As the show starts, Oscar Fan Experience guests will be whisked away for an exclusive viewing party at the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles, where they will be treated to special Oscar surprises and treats from PEOPLE.

"We are thrilled to be a part of this year's Oscar Fan Experience," said Karen Kovacs, publisher, PEOPLE. "We know that like our PEOPLE readers, Oscar fans love to see their favorite stars on the biggest night in Hollywood. We are extremely excited to play a part in giving 700 people a chance to experience film's magical night in person."

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center® and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane. The Oscar presentation will be televised live on the ABC Television Network and in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.comor download the official Oscars app.

Fans can visit PEOPLE.com and Oscar.com for unprecedented access into this year's Academy Awards®.

February 12, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHIWETEL EJIOFOR, CHRIS EVANS, DAKOTA JOHNSON, JENNIFER LOPEZ,

CHLOË GRACE MORETZ, EDDIE MURPHY AND MARGOT ROBBIE

TO PRESENT AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA—Chiwetel Ejiofor, Chris Evans, Dakota Johnson, Jennifer Lopez, Chloë Grace Moretz, Eddie Murphy and Margot Robbie will be presenters at this year’s Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

Ejiofor received his first Oscar® nomination last year for his lead performance in “12 Years a Slave.” He previously appeared in such features as “Salt” (2010), “American Gangster” (2007), “Children of Men” (2006) and “Dirty Pretty Things” (2003). His upcoming films include “Z for Zachariah” and “Triple Nine.”

Evans made his directorial debut in Toronto this year with “Before We Go.” He starred in 2014’s “Captain America: The Winter Soldier,” reprising the role of the patriotic superhero he played in “Captain America: The First Avenger” (2011) and “Marvel’s The Avengers” (2012). His other film credits include “Snowpiercer” (2014), “Puncture” (2011), “Sunshine” (2007) and “Fantastic Four” (2005). He will appear next in “Avengers: Age of Ultron.”

Johnson will star in “Fifty Shades of Grey,” which opens this month. She’s appeared in such hits as “The Five-Year Engagement,” “21 Jump Street” and “The Social Network.” Johnson will next be seen in the upcoming films “A Bigger Splash” and “Black Mass.”

Lopez can currently be seen in the thriller “The Boy Next Door.” Her other feature credits include “An Unfinished Life” (2005), “Monster in Law” (2005), “The Wedding Planner” (2001) and “Out of Sight” (1998). She stars opposite Viola Davis in “Lila & Eve,” which premiered last month at the Sundance Film Festival and she will voice ‘Lucy’ in the upcoming animated film “Home.”

Moretz most recently starred in “Dark Shadows” (2012), “The Equalizer” (2014) and “If I Stay” (2014). She previously appeared in such features as “Carrie” (2013), “Hugo” (2011), “Kick-Ass” (2010) and “Let Me In” (2010). She will next appear in “The Fifth Wave.”

Murphy received an Oscar nomination for his supporting role in the 2006 film “Dreamgirls.” He has starred in such features as “Bowfinger” (1999), “The Nutty Professor” (1996), “Coming to America” (1988), “Beverly Hills Cop” (1984) and “48 Hrs.” (1982), and has lent his voice talents to all four of the “Shrek” animated features to date. He will next be seen in the independent drama “Cook.”

Robbie is best known for her breakout role in “The Wolf of Wall Street” (2013) and can next be seen starring in Warner Bros' “Focus.” She is currently in production on Paramount's “Untitled Tina Fey Project." Her upcoming films include “Z for Zachariah,” “Tarzan" and “Suicide Squad."

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

February 12, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

LADY GAGA TO PERFORM AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA— Six-time Grammy®-winning singer and songwriter Lady Gaga will make a special tribute performance at the 87th Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

"Lady Gaga is a once in a lifetime artist who's musical evolution keeps growing. We are proud to have her perform on the Oscars for the very first time," says Zadan and Meron.

Since breaking in 2008, Lady Gaga has sold over 27 million albums, 130 million singles, and over 4 million tickets globally to her award-winning live performances. Lady Gaga has won a total of 6 Grammy Awards - her most recent this week for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for Cheek To Cheek, her 2014 collaboration with Tony Bennett which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

February 11, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BEN AFFLECK, JESSICA CHASTAIN, VIOLA DAVIS, KEVIN HART, SHIRLEY MACLAINE, CHRIS PINE, MILES TELLER AND NAOMI WATTS

TO PRESENT AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA—Ben Affleck, Jessica Chastain, Viola Davis, Kevin Hart, Shirley MacLaine, Chris Pine, Miles Teller and Naomi Watts will be presenters at this year’s Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

Affleck, a two-time Academy Award® winner, received an Original Screenplay Oscar® for “Good Will Hunting” (1997) and a Best Picture Oscar for “Argo” (2012), on which he served as a producer, director and star. His most recent role was opposite Rosamund Pike in “Gone Girl” (2014). He will play Batman in the upcoming feature “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” and “The Accountant.”

Chastain has received two Oscar nominations, one for Actress in a Leading Role for “Zero Dark Thirty” (2012) and one for Actress in a Supporting Role for “The Help” (2011). Her most recent films include 2014’s “Interstellar,” “A Most Violent Year” and “The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby.” She will next be seen in “Crimson Peak” and “The Martian.”

Davis has been nominated for two Oscars, one for her supporting role in the 2008 film “Doubt” and one for her leading role in 2011’s “The Help.” She currently stars in the ABC primetime hit “How to Get Away with Murder.” Davis’s film credits include “Get on Up,” “The Disappearance of Eleanor Rigby: Them,” “Ender’s Game” and “Prisoners.” She will next been seen in “Lila and Eve,” due out this year.

Hart, who currently stars in the feature comedy “The Wedding Ringer,” appeared in last year’s “Ride Along,” “About Last Night,” “Think Like a Man Too” and “Top Five.” His previous credits include “Think Like a Man” (2012) and “The Five-Year Engagement” (2012). He will star opposite Will Ferrell in “Get Hard” later this year.

MacLaine won an Oscar for Actress in a Leading Role for 1983’s “Terms of Endearment.” She also received nominations for her leading roles in “The Turning Point” (1983), “Irma La Douce” (1963) “The Apartment” (1960) and “Some Came Running” (1958), as well for the documentary feature “The Other Half of the Sky: A China Memoir” (1975), which she produced. Her next role is in “Wild Oats.”

Pine most recently appeared as Cinderella’s Prince in “Into the Woods” (2014). He also has starred in such features as “Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit” (2014), “Star Trek Into Darkness” (2013), “People

Like Us” (2012), “Unstoppable” (2010), “Star Trek” (2009) and “Bottle Shock” (2008). His upcoming films include “Z for Zachariah” and “The Finest Hours.”

Teller stars in the current Best Picture nominee “Whiplash.” Later this year, he will appear in the feature “Bleed for This,” as well as “The Fantastic Four.” Teller also appeared in the 2013 film “The Spectacular Now.”

Watts has twice been nominated for Actress in a Leading Role, for “The Impossible” (2012) and “21 Grams” (2003). Her feature credits also include “Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance)” (2014), “St. Vincent” (2014), “Eastern Promises” (2007), “King Kong” (2005) and “Mulholland Drive” (2001). She will next be seen in the “Divergent” sequel “Insurgent,” While We’re Young,” The Sea of Trees,” and “Demolition.”

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

February 11, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

2013 ACADEMY NICHOLL SCREENWRITING

COMPETITION NOW UNDERWAY

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is now accepting entries for the 2013 Academy Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting competition. As many as five $35,000 fellowships will be awarded in November.

The Nicholl Fellowships competition is open to any individual who has not earned a total of more than $25,000 from the sale or option of screenplays or teleplays, or received fellowships or prizes of more than $25,000 that include a "first look" clause, an option or any other quid pro quo involving the writer's work. To enter, writers must submit a completed application online, upload one PDF copy of their original screenplay in English and pay the entry fee before 11:59 p.m. PT on May 1, 2013.

Entry fee schedule is as follows:

Early deadline: March 1; entry fee US$35

Regular deadline: April 10; entry fee US$50

Final deadline: May 1; entry fee US$65

Online applications, rules and other details are available at www.oscars.org/nicholl.

Fellowships are awarded with the understanding that the recipients will each complete a new feature-length screenplay during the fellowship year. The Academy acquires no rights to the works of Nicholl fellows and does not involve itself commercially in any way with their completed scripts.

Last year's competition drew a record 7,197 entries. Since the program's inception in 1985, 128 fellowships have been awarded.

Several past Nicholl fellows have recently added to their achievements. Destin Cretton directed "Short Term 12" from his fellowship-winning screenplay; the film will premiere in competition at South by Southwest® next month. Creighton Rothenberger co-wrote "Olympus Has Fallen," slated to open in March with Gerard Butler, Aaron Eckhart, Morgan Freeman and Angela Bassett. Andrew Marlowe is the creator and executive producer of the ABC series "Castle," now in its fifth season. Rebecca Sonnenshine is the executive story editor on the CW series "The Vampire Diaries."

February 10, 2015

HOLLYWOOD STREET CLOSURES FOR 2015 OSCAR® WEEK

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – To ensure public safety, support security strategies and facilitate the production of this year’s Oscars®, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the City of Los Angeles have finalized street closure plans around the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood.

To accommodate the construction of press risers, fan bleachers and pre-show stages along the Oscars red carpet, Hollywood Boulevard will be closed between Highland Avenue and Orange Drive beginning at 10 p.m. on Sunday, February 15, and remain closed until 6 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24.

MTA subway trains will bypass the Hollywood & Highland station after the last regularly scheduled train on Saturday, February 21, until 6 a.m. Monday, February 23. Service at the station will resume with the first scheduled train after 6 a.m.

Between Sunday, February 15, and Oscar Sunday, February 22, additional streets and sidewalks will be closed for varying periods.

Details of the closures and maps of affected areas are available from the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, the Sixth and the Thirteenth District City Council field offices and on the Academy's website at www.oscars.org/closures.

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

February 10, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JENNIFER ANISTON, SIENNA MILLER, DAVID OYELOWO,

CHRIS PRATT, JOHN TRAVOLTA AND KERRY WASHINGTON

TO PRESENT AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA—Jennifer Aniston, Sienna Miller, David Oyelowo, Chris Pratt, Chris Rock and John Travolta will be presenters at this year’s Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

Aniston has starred in such films as “Cake” (2014), “We’re the Millers” (2013), “Horrible Bosses” (2011), “Marley & Me” (2008) and “Bruce Almighty” (2003). She also starred in all ten seasons of “Friends,” for which she won the 2002 Emmy® Award for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series.

Miller co-stars in “American Sniper” and “Foxcatcher,” both of which have garnered multiple Oscar® nominations this year. She previously appeared in such features as “Factory Girl” (2006) and “Layer Cake” (2005). Her upcoming films include “High-Rise,” “Adam Jones” and “Lost City of Z.”

Oyelowo portrayed Martin Luther King, Jr. in this year’s Best Picture nominee “Selma.” His other recent feature credits include “A Most Violent Year” (2014), “Interstellar” (2014), “Lee Daniels’ The Butler” (2013) and “Jack Reacher” (2012). He will next be seen in “Captive” due out later this year.

Pratt starred in two of 2014’s biggest box office hits, “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “The Lego Movie.” He previously appeared in the Best Picture nominees “Her” (2013), “Zero Dark Thirty” (2012) and “Moneyball” (2011), and co-starred in all seven seasons of the comedy series “Parks and Recreation.” He will next be seen in “Jurassic World,” in theaters June 12th of this year.

Washington is the star of the hit television drama “Scandal,” and received two Emmy® nominations for her role. Her film roles have included “She Hate Me” (2004), Mr. & Mrs. Smith (2005), “I Think I Love My Wife” (2007), “Lakeview Terrace” (2008), “For Colored Girls” (2010) and “Django Unchained” (2012).

Travolta is a two-time Oscar nominee, for his leading roles in “Pulp Fiction” (1994) and “Saturday Night Fever” (1977). He also has starred in such features as “Savages” (2012), “The Taking of Pelham 1 2 3” (2009), “Hairspray” (2007) “Face/Off” (1997), “Get Shorty” (1995) and “Grease” (1978). His upcoming film, “The Forger” will be out later this year.

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

February 10, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OSCAR® WINNER JENNIFER HUDSON TO PERFORM AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA—Oscar and Grammy-winning singer and actress Jennifer Hudson will be performing on the 87th Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

"We're creating several musical sequences for the Oscars and we couldn't be happier that our friend, Jennifer Hudson, will be performing in one of them," says Zadan and Meron.

Hudson won the Oscar for Actress in a Supporting Role for the 2006 film “Dreamgirls.” Her other acting credits include “Sex and the City” (2008), “The Secret Life of Bees” (2008), “Winnie Mandela” (2013) and “The Inevitable Defeat of Mister & Pete” (2013). Hudson’s self-titled debut album won the 2008 Grammy Award for Best R&B Album and was certified Gold, as was her second album, “I Remember Me.” This year she was nominated for Best R&B Performance for the song “It’s Your World,” from her 2014 album, “JHUD.”

The 87th Oscars will be held on Sunday, February 22, 2015, at the Dolby Theatre® at Hollywood & Highland Center® in Hollywood, and will be televised live on the ABC Television Network at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT. The Oscars, produced by Zadan and Meron, also will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.

February 9, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ANNA KENDRICK TO PERFORM AT 87TH OSCARS^®

LOS ANGELES, CA—Actress and singer Anna Kendrick will make a special appearance at the 87th Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

"Out of the woods and on to the Oscar stage, Anna will be performing something special that is sure to be an "Only on the Oscars" moment." says Zadan and Meron.

Kendrick was nominated for an Oscar® for her supporting role in the 2009 film “Up in the Air.” Her other film credits include “Into the Woods” (2014), “Pitch Perfect” (2012) and the “Twilight” film series. In 1998, at the age of 12, Kendrick was nominated for a Tony Award® for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for “High Society.” She will star in the films "The Last Five Years," "The Hollars,” and “Pitch Perfect 2” later this year.

February 9, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JOSH HUTCHERSON, SCARLETT JOHANSSON,

ZOE SALDANA AND OCTAVIA SPENCER TO PRESENT AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA— Josh Hutcherson, Scarlett Johansson, Zoe Saldana and Octavia Spencer will be presenters at this year’s Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

Hutcherson has appeared in such films as “Journey to the Center of the Earth” (2008), “The Kids Are All Right” (2010) and all three “Hunger Games” films to date. He will star later this year in the series finale, “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay - Part 2.”

Johansson, whose film credits include “Lost in Translation” (2003), “Match Point” (2005), “Her” (2013) and “Lucy” (2014) will reprise her recurring role as Natasha Romanoff/Black Widow in the upcoming film “Avengers: Age of Ultron.”

Saldana has appeared in such features as “Avatar” (2009), “Star Trek Into Darkness” (2013) and “Guardians of the Galaxy” (2014). She will next appear in “Infinitely Polar Bear” due out later this year.

Spencer won an Oscar® for her supporting role in the 2011 film “The Help.” Her other film credits include “Fruitvale Station” (2013), “Snowpiercer” (2014) and “Black or White” (2014). She will appear in the upcoming “Divergent” sequel “Insurgent.”

February 8, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE ACADEMY AND GALLERY1988 PRESENT A NEW EXHIBITION

"FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION"

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and Gallery1988 will present "For Your Consideration," their first collaborative exhibition featuring art inspired by the 2012 Best Picture Oscar® nominees, on display February 14 through 17 at Gallery1988 Melrose in Los Angeles. The images can currently be viewed in a digital gallery at http://oscar.com/for-your-consideration.

"Working hand-in-hand with the Academy has been a dream come true for Gallery1988 and its artists," said Jensen Karp, co-owner and co-curator of Gallery1988. "So much inspiration has come from past Oscar telecasts as well as the amazing range of films that have been nominated this year. It was a perfect fit for our style of artwork and treatment, and we can't wait to show everyone the results of some of our most creative contemporary minds."

The Academy and Gallery1988 commissioned a small group of young international artists to create original screen prints inspired by this year's nine Best Picture nominees. The participating artists and their respective films are Matt Owen ("Amour"), Anthony Petrie ("Argo"), Rich Kelly ("Beasts of the Southern Wild"), Mark Englert ("Django Unchained"), Phantom City Creative ("Les Misérables"), Tom Whalen ("Life of Pi"), Jeff Boyes ("Lincoln"), Joshua Budich ("Silver Linings Playbook") and Godmachine ("Zero Dark Thirty").

These screen prints are not available for purchase; however, fans will have several opportunities to obtain limited edition posters. On each day of "For Your Consideration," Gallery1988 will give away free posters to the first 100 people who visit the gallery at a specified time. For information on when each film poster will be distributed, visit nineteeneightyeight.comor follow Gallery1988 on Twitter (@galleries1988) and Facebook (gallery1988). Fans outside the Los Angeles area can find out about poster giveaway opportunities by following the Academy on Twitter (@TheAcademy) and Facebook (TheAcademy).

"For Your Consideration" also features 12 illustrations of memorable Oscar moments by Oliver Barrett, a light installation by Julie B (Pretty in Plastic), and other Oscar-inspired work by artists Olly Moss, Nan Lawson and DabsMyla.

Gallery1988 opened in Los Angeles in 2004 and has since become a world-recognized destination for pop culture art. It has produced such shows as Crazy 4 Cult, in which 100 artists created pieces inspired by classic cult films, and has worked with such luminaries as Stan Lee, Beastie Boys, Weird Al Yankovic and Judd Apatow. It recently spearheaded the "Breaking Bad" Fan Art Campaign, partnering with Sony to promote the most recent season of the television show. Gallery1988 also has created pieces for PaleyFest and Jason Reitman's Live Read series at LACMA, as well the historic poster and artwork for Paramount Pictures' 100th Anniversary celebration.

Gallery1988 is located at 7021 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles. Hours are Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; the gallery is closed on Monday and Tuesday. For more information, visit nineteeneightyeight.com.

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane. The Oscar presentation will be televised live on the ABC Television Network and in more than 225 countries worldwide.

February 8, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

WILLIAM ROSS TO CONDUCT OSCAR® ORCHESTRA

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – William Ross will conduct the Oscar orchestra for the Academy Awards®, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

"We are happy to have Bill Ross conduct the Oscar orchestra," said Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. "With a show so rich with music, we are so pleased to have someone as talented as Bill on our team."

Ross, who conducted for the 79th and 83rd Academy Awards®, is a prolific award-winning composer and arranger whose work encompasses feature films, television and the music recording industry. He has arranged music for artists such as Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Josh Groban, Andrea Bocelli, Michael Buble, Kenny G., Sting, Quincy Jones, Seal, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston. The records on which he has worked have sold a total of over 250 million copies in the United States.

Ross has written original scores for such films as "The Tale of Despereaux," "Ladder 49," "Tuck Everlasting" and "My Dog Skip." He also adapted and conducted the score to "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets."

Oscars® for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

ABOUT CRAIG ZADAN AND NEIL MERON

Craig Zadan and Neil Meron are producers of critically acclaimed and award-winning feature films, television movies, series, and Broadway productions. Their feature films include The Bucket List, Footloose, Hairspray, and Chicago, which won six Academy Awards including one for “Best Picture.” For television, they’ve produced films of “Steel Magnolias,” ”Life with Judy Garland,” and “A Raisin in the Sun,” among many others and the series “Smash” and “Drop Dead Diva.” They recently returned to their roots in live theater by producing Broadway revivals of the Tony-winning ”Promises, Promises” and the Tony-winning 50th Anniversary revival of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

February 8, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DAME SHIRLEY BASSEY TO

MAKE HER FIRST APPEARANCE ON AN OSCAR® SHOW

BEVERLY HILLS, CA – Dame Shirley Bassey will make a special appearance on the Oscars®, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today.

"We are thrilled to welcome the legendary Dame Shirley Bassey to our Oscar show," said Craig Zadan and Neil Meron. "Her association with film music is world renowned and we are proud that she will be making her first Oscar appearance on our telecast.

Bassey is this year celebrating her very own "Diamond Jubilee" with a career spanning over six decades. She has recorded over 44 albums, sold over 135 million records and has sold out concert halls across the world. In June 2012, she was one of a number of esteemed artists, including Elton John, Paul McCartney and Annie Lennox, who performed at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Concert. In the United States, Bassey is best known for recording the theme songs for the James Bond films "Goldfinger," "Diamonds Are Forever" and "Moonraker."

Bassey joins a stellar list of previously announced Oscar performers including Adele, Norah Jones and Barbra Streisand; and presenters including "The Avengers" cast members Robert Downey Jr., Samuel L. Jackson, Chris Evans, Jeremy Renner and Mark Ruffalo; returning 2011 Oscar winners Jean Dujardin, Christopher Plummer, Octavia Spencer and Meryl Streep; co-stars Mark Wahlberg and Ted; and, special guest appearances including Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Daniel Radcliffe, Channing Tatum and Charlize Theron.

Oscars for outstanding film achievements of 2012 will be presented on Oscar Sunday, February 24, at the Dolby Theatre™ at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and will be hosted by Seth MacFarlane live on the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 225 countries worldwide. For more information go to Oscar.com or download the official Oscars app.

ABOUT CRAIG ZADAN AND NEIL MERON

Craig Zadan and Neil Meron are producers of critically acclaimed and award-winning feature films, television movies, series, and Broadway productions. Their feature films include The Bucket List, Footloose, Hairspray, and Chicago, which won six Academy Awards including one for “Best Picture.” For television, they’ve produced films of “Steel Magnolias,” "Life with Judy Garland," and "A Raisin in the Sun," among many others and the series “Smash” and “Drop Dead Diva.” They recently returned to their roots in live theater by producing Broadway revivals of the Tony-winning “Promises, Promises” and the Tony-winning 50th Anniversary revival of “How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.”

FEBRUARY 6, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

TEGAN AND SARA RETEAM WITH

COMEDY-MUSIC TRIO THE LONELY ISLAND

FOR OSCARS® PERFORMANCE

LOS ANGELES, CA — Pop duo Tegan and Sara and comedy-music trio The Lonely Island will perform the Oscar®-nominated song “Everything Is Awesome” at the 87th Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

"Tegan and Sara and The Lonely Island?.....Everything Is Awesome, indeed. This is certainly an 'Only on the Oscars' moment," says Zadan and Meron.

“Everything Is Awesome,” written by Shawn Patterson for the animated feature “The Lego Movie,” is nominated for Original Song. The four other nominated songs are “Glory” from “Selma,” “Grateful” from “Beyond the Lights,” “I’m Not Gonna Miss You” from “Glen Campbell…I’ll Be Me” and “Lost Stars” from “Begin Again.”

Canadian twin sisters Tegan and Sara have been releasing critically acclaimed albums and touring internationally alongside some of the biggest names in the industry since 1999. Their seventh and latest studio album, “Heartthrob,” debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Top 200, with certified gold single "Closer" charting in the top 20 at U.S. pop radio. Tegan and Sara were recognized with a Grammy nomination in 2013, and won Pop Album of the Year for “Heartthrob”, and Group of the Year, at Canada’s 2014 Juno Awards. “Everything Is Awesome,” which the duo recorded with The Lonely Island, has sold more than half a million copies in the U.S.

A comedy, music and filmmaking trio composed of “Saturday Night Live” alumni Andy Samberg, Akiva Schaffer and Jorma Taccone, The Lonely Island has released three studio albums and several gold and platinum singles. “I’m On A Boat,” featuring singer-songwriter T-Pain, achieved double-platinum status and earned a 2009 Grammy nomination for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration. The group is responsible for one of the biggest channels on YouTube, garnering over 1.5 billion views.

February 6, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OSCAR® NOMINEES COTILLARD, CUMBERBATCH, STREEP, WINFREY AND WITHERSPOON TO PRESENT AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA—Oscar® nominees Marion Cotillard, Benedict Cumberbatch, Meryl Streep, Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon will be presenters at this year’s Oscars®, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

Cotillard is nominated for Actress in a Leading Role for “Two Days, One Night.” She previously won an Oscar in this category for the 2007 film “La Vie en Rose.”

Cumberbatch is nominated for Actor in a Leading Role for “The Imitation Game.”

Streep earned a record 19th acting nomination this year for her supporting role in “Into the Woods.” She previously took home Oscars for her lead performances in “Sophie’s Choice” (1982) and “The Iron Lady” (2011), and her supporting performance in “Kramer vs. Kramer” (1979). Streep’s previous Best Actress nominations were for “The French Lieutenant’s Woman” (1981), “Silkwood” (1983), “Out of Africa” (1985), “Ironweed” (1987), “A Cry in the Dark” (1988), “Postcards from the Edge” (1990), “The Bridges of Madison County” (1995), “One True Thing” (1998), “Music of the Heart” (1999), “The Devil Wears Prada” (2006), “Doubt” (2008), “Julie & Julia” (2009) and “August: Osage County” (2013). She also received Best Supporting Actress nominations for “The Deer Hunter” (1978) and “Adaptation” (2002).

Winfrey is nominated for Best Picture as one of the producers of “Selma.” She was previously nominated for Actress in a Supporting Role for “The Color Purple” (1985). She received the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award in 2011.

Witherspoon is nominated for Actress in a Leading Role for “Wild.” She previously won an Oscar in this category for the 2005 movie “Walk the Line.”

February 5, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“OSCARS® OPENING CEREMONY: LIVE FROM THE RED CARPET”

Hosted by Robin Roberts, Lara Spencer and Michael Strahan,

Joined by Jess Cagle and Joe Zee

The Ultimate Oscar® Opening Ceremony to

Feature Exclusive Special Moments

Airs Oscar Sunday, February 22, 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ABC

LOS ANGELES, CA — ABC and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences are pulling out the stops for Hollywood’s most spectacular night with “Oscars Opening Ceremony: Live From The Red Carpet,” the exclusive, majestic, highly anticipated lead-in to the live telecast of the 87th Oscars hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, on Sunday, February 22.

In addition to showcasing the nominees, presenters and performers arriving on the red carpet, the 90-minute special will highlight the incredible journey many of the nominees have taken to get to Hollywood’s most prestigious night. It also will give fans around the world the exclusive and ultimate insiders’ view of Oscars festivities from the nominees’ perspective.

Hosted by “Good Morning America” anchors Robin Roberts and Lara Spencer, "LIVE with Kelly and Michael" co-host Michael Strahan, and joined by Editorial Director of People and Entertainment Weekly Jess Cagle, and Yahoo! fashion editor Joe Zee, “Oscars Opening Ceremony: Live From The Red Carpet,” airs Sunday, February 22, beginning at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ABC.

Oscar show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron tapped ABC’s Lincoln Square Productions team to produce the red carpet show. It will be executive produced by John R. Green and directed by Jeff Winn.

February 5, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

JACK BLACK TO PERFORM AT THE OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA —The versatile actor, singer and comedian Jack Black will make a special appearance at the 87th Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

"Jack Black is a complete original comic voice and we're beyond thrilled that he has agreed to join the Oscars show in a very special sequence" says Zadan and Meron.

Black has starred in such films as “High Fidelity,” “Shallow Hal,” “School of Rock,” “King Kong,” and “Tropic Thunder,” and is voicing the title character in “Kung Fu Panda 3,” his third turn in the animated feature series. He also is the lead singer and guitarist of the comedy rock duo Tenacious D, which he formed in 1994 with Kyle Gass. Black has made three previous appearances on the Oscars, most recently as a presenter at the 81st Academy Awards.

February 4, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

OSCAR® WINNERS BLANCHETT, LETO, MCCONAUGHEY AND NYONG’O

TO RETURN AS PRESENTERS AT 87TH OSCARS®

LOS ANGELES, CA — Cate Blanchett, Jared Leto, Matthew McConaughey and Lupita Nyong’o, last year’s Oscar winners in the leading actress, supporting actor and supporting actress categories, will return to present at this year’s Oscars, show producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron announced today. The Oscars, hosted by Neil Patrick Harris, will air on Sunday, February 22, live on ABC.

"The great tradition of having the previous year’s Oscar-winning best actors and actresses in all 4 categories happily continues this year with the amazing quartet of Cate, Jared, Matthew and Lupita. We're thrilled to have them back," says Zadan and Meron.

Blanchett has been nominated for six Oscars and has won two, including last year’s award for “Blue Jasmine.” Her previous win was for Actress in a Supporting Role for the 2004 film “The Aviator.” Blanchett also received leading actress nominations for “Elizabeth” (1998) and “Elizabeth: The Golden Age” (2007), and supporting actress nominations for “Notes on a Scandal” (2006) and “I’m Not There” (2007).

Last year, Leto won the Oscar for Actor in a Supporting Role and McConaughey for Actor in a Leading Role, both for “Dallas Buyer’s Club.” Nyong’o took home the Oscar for Actress in a Supporting Role for “12 Years a Slave.”

February 3, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ACADEMY ANNOUNCES 2015 GOVERNORS BALL CREATIVE TEAM

LOS ANGELES, CA – Academy governor Jeffrey Kurland, event producer Cheryl Cecchetto and master chef Wolfgang Puck will return to create this year’s Governors Ball, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ official post-Oscar® celebration, which will immediately follow the 87th Oscars® ceremony on Sunday, February 22. The Ball’s 1,500 invited guests include Oscar winners and nominees, show presenters and other telecast participants.

“The artistry and glamour that have truly defined Hollywood for decades will be highlighted at 87th Oscars Governors Ball,” said Kurland. “We’ve selected the most stunning imagery from the Academy’s vast collections to set the stage for our guests. The Academy will honor and share these timeless moments of a legacy that is in our blood and truly makes us who we are.”

As the chair of the Governors Ball, Kurland will oversee the décor, menu and entertainment planning, as well as design the attire to be worn by the evening’s staff. Kurland is an acclaimed costume designer whose feature credits include “Hannah and Her Sisters,” “Radio Days,” “Crimes and Misdemeanors,” “Erin Brockovich,” “Ocean’s Eleven,” “Inception,” “Beautiful Creatures” and the upcoming “Tomorrowland.” He received an Oscar nomination for Costume Design for “Bullets over Broadway.” This will be Kurland’s sixth year serving as Governors Ball chair.

Cecchetto, along with her Sequoia Productions team, will work with Kurland to manage every detail pertaining to the event, including décor, entertainment, food and personnel. Sequoia Productions’ clients include the Television Academy, G’Day USA, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Westfield and the UCSF Medical Center at Mission Bay. This will be Cecchetto’s 26th consecutive year producing the Governors Ball.

Master chef Wolfgang Puck and Matt Bencivenga, chef partner of Wolfgang Puck Catering, have drawn upon vintage and contemporary Hollywood glamour to create a menu that’s both legendary and innovative. The menu will feature more than 50 imaginative dishes, from one-bite hors d’oeuvres to small-plate entrees that will be passed throughout the evening. Guests will enjoy such signature Puck favorites as smoked salmon Oscars, chicken pot pie with shaved black truffles, and mini American Wagyu burgers with aged Cheddar. Puck also will present classic dishes re-imagined for Hollywood’s big night, including lobster “BLT”; beet latkes with pastrami duck and apple mustard; and dover sole with orange miso vinaigrette. Appealing to diverse palates will be modern vegetarian dishes featuring local organic produce, such as parsnip soup with white chocolate, pears and 24k gold; and artichokes with asparagus, fava beans, baby beets and citrus vinaigrette. This year’s dynamic pastry team includes Della Gossett, Spago’s executive pastry chef; Kamel Guechida, corporate director of pastry for the Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group; and Jason Lemonnier, Los Angeles pastry chef for Wolfgang Puck Catering. Together these chefs will create such innovative and elegant seasonal desserts as apple millefeuille with cider jelly, peanut butter strawberry lollipop, and milk chocolate panna cotta with raspberry and cherry, as well as Puck’s traditional 24k gold chocolate Oscars. CEO Carl Schuster directs more than 900 event staff through the detailed logistics and hospitality experience. This is Puck’s 21st consecutive year creating the menu for the Governors Ball.

The Governors Ball will take place in the Ray Dolby Ballroom on the top level of the Hollywood & Highland Center® immediately following the Oscar telecast.

February 3, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

THE ACADEMY TO CELEBRATE OSCAR NIGHT® NEW YORK AT

DANIEL BOULUD’S ICONIC RESTAURANT DANIEL

NEW YORK, NY – For the third consecutive year, Chef Daniel Boulud’s highly acclaimed restaurant DANIEL will once again bring Hollywood to New York hosting members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. As the only East Coast event officially hosted by The Academy, Oscar Night at DANIEL has become one of the most prestigious viewing parties in New York.

After 21 years in business, DANIEL remains a pivotal fixture in the New York restaurant scene. Chef Boulud, who hails from Lyon, France, is considered one of America’s leading culinary connoisseurs and is one of the most revered chefs in New York City.

Boulud and his team of chefs – helmed by Executive Chef Jean François Bruel and Pastry Chef Ghaya Oliveira – will leverage their culinary creativity to present a special menu inspired by Best Picture Nominees. Exquisite canapés will reflect the themes of Birdman or (The Unexpected Virtue of Ignorance), Boyhood, American Sniper and Selma, while pastries will channel Whiplash, The Theory of Everything, The Grand Budapest Hotel and The Imitation Game. The menu will be paired with a dramatic cocktail by Head Bartender Arnaud Dissais called, “And The Winner Is…”, served in a martini glass with an "edible envelope" garnish.

“Oscar Night New York is an opportunity for the local film community to come together and celebrate a year of outstanding achievements in cinema. We are delighted to be returning to DANIEL for what will undoubtedly be an unforgettable evening with Chef Boulud,” said Patrick Harrison, the Academy’s Director of New York Programs and Membership.

“The team here at DANIEL is thrilled to be hosting Oscar Night New York for a third consecutive year. We have planned a special menu for this glamorous event and look forward to providing the East Coast Academy members with a memorable evening for the 87th broadcast,” said Chef Boulud.

High-definition, large-screen LCD monitors augmented by Dolby® sound equipment throughout the dining room will create an immersive experience for guests.

Two 7.5-foot Oscar® statues will greet the New York partygoers as they enter the restaurant on Oscar Night. These golden sentinels are identical to the larger-than-life Oscars that will greet the ceremony’s attendees in Hollywood.

February 3, 2015

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ACADEMY’S OSCAR® WEEK EVENTS

CELEBRATE THIS YEAR’S NOMINEES

BEVERLY HILLS, CA — In the week leading up to the 87th Oscars®, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences will present a series of public programs celebrating this year’s nominees in the Animated Feature Film, Documentary Feature, Documentary Short Subject, Foreign Language Film, Makeup and Hairstyling, and Short Film categories. All events will be held at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills.

The Oscar Week schedule is as follows:

OSCAR WEEK: SHORTS

Tuesday, February 17, 7 p.m.

Hosted by Sean Astin. Astin is an actor, writer, producer and director who received an Oscar nomination for his 1994 short film “Kangaroo Court.” The program delves into the Animated Short Film and Live Action Short Film categories with complete screenings of all the nominated films as well as onstage panel discussions with the filmmakers (schedules permitting).

OSCAR WEEK: DOCS

Wednesday, February 18, 7:30 p.m.

Hosted by Rob Epstein and Tabitha Jackson. Epstein has won Oscars for the documentary features “The Times of Harvey Milk” and “Common Threads: Stories from the Quilt.” Jackson is currently the director of the documentary film program at the Sundance Institute. The evening includes clips from all the films nominated in Documentary Feature and Documentary Short Subject categories, as well as onstage panel discussions with the filmmakers (schedules permitting).

OSCAR WEEK: ANIMATED FEATURES

Thursday, February 19, 7:30 p.m.

Hosted by Oscar- winning directors Chris Buck and Jennifer Lee. Buck and Lee shared the 2013 Oscar for Animated Feature Film for “Frozen.” Buck was previously nominated for “Surf’s Up.” Lee also co-wrote the screenplay for “Wreck-It Ralph.” This year’s nominees in the Animated Feature Film category (schedules permitting) will talk about their creative processes and present clips illustrating their techniques.

OSCAR WEEK: FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILMS

Saturday, February 21, 10 a.m.

Hosted by Producers Branch governor Mark Johnson. Johnson won the 1988 Best Picture Oscar for “Rain Man” and received a second nomination for “Bugsy.” The directors of the nominated films in the Foreign Language Film category (schedules permitting) will explore a wide range of topics, from their experiences developing their projects to the specific challenges of their profession. This two-hour event includes clips from each of the nominated films.

OSCAR WEEK: MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING SYMPOSIUM

Saturday, February 21, 3 p.m.

Moderated by Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch governor Leonard Engelman. Engelman’s feature credits include “Ghostbusters,” “Moonstruck,” “Heat” and “Burlesque.” In Oscar Week’s final public event, the nominees in the Makeup and Hairstyling category (schedules permitting) will reveal the secrets behind their on-screen work. Photographs, appliances, molds, wigs and other items will be on display in the theater lobby.

Tickets will be available online at Oscars.org starting Friday, February 6, at 10 a.m. PT. Tickets to the Shorts, Docs, Animated Features and Foreign Language Films events are $5 for the general public and $3 for Academy members and students with a valid ID (Shorts and Foreign Language Films tickets limited to four per person). Admission to the Saturday afternoon Makeup and Hairstyling event is free, but advance tickets are required (limited to two per person). The Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater is located at 8949 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills. Doors open one hour prior to each event. All ticketed seating is unreserved. For more information, visit Oscars.org or call (310) 247-3600.