Al Pacino released a statement on the matter, which was also published by Variety. He reiterated how it was an intentional decision: “I just want to be clear it was not my intention to omit them, rather a choice by the producers not to have them said again since they were highlighted individually throughout the ceremony.”
The actor went on to explain that he understands why people may have been more upset than confused about the matter. While all of the best picture nominees were highlighted throughout the ceremony, the final award presentation is an opportunity to praise them one last time. The whole ceremony is about honoring cinema, so why not draw attention to the best films of the previous year? Pacino admitted, “I realize being nominated is a huge milestone in one’s life and to not be fully recognized is offensive and hurtful … I deeply empathize with those who have been slighted by this oversight and it’s why I felt it necessary to make this statement.”
Even Oscars host Jimmy Kimmel poked fun at Pacino’s presentation. After the show, he spoke with “Live with Kelly and Mark” to say, “Everyone in America knows the rhythm of how it’s supposed to go … down to the ‘And the Oscar goes to…’ But not Al Pacino! God bless him.” If nothing else, Pacino’s presentation overshadowed other big moments, like John Cena being naked at the 2024 Oscars, which is a feat in and of itself.
