As the Oscars approach, a particular choice for presenter has raised eyebrows: Casey Affleck, who is set to present the Best Actress award. Last year, two women filed lawsuits alleging sexual harassment against him, and in the wake of the #MeToo movement, many are questioning whether it’s appropriate for him to take the stage this year.
A year ago, Affleck was basking in the glow of Oscar buzz for his performance in Manchester by the Sea. However, amidst his accolades, a troubling narrative emerged. A piece in The Daily Beast highlighted claims from two women who accused him of harassment and intimidation back in 2010. Despite these serious allegations, Affleck received the Best Actor award, which means he is now expected to present the Best Actress award at this year’s ceremony. Given the current climate of accountability in Hollywood, many are rightly alarmed at the prospect of him honoring women like Meryl Streep and Frances McDormand on such a significant platform.
When Affleck won his Oscar in February, it was clear that Brie Larson, the previous year’s Best Actress, was uncomfortable presenting the award to him. Her forced smile and reserved congratulations spoke volumes. Larson, a vocal advocate for survivors of sexual assault, later remarked, “I think that whatever it was that I did onstage kind of spoke for itself.” This sentiment echoes the growing frustration with the industry’s handling of such allegations.
Now, in a post-Harvey Weinstein era, allowing Affleck to stand before an audience of celebrated actresses feels inappropriate and offensive. A recent Daily Beast article titled “The Oscars Have A Casey Affleck Problem (Again)” highlights how public perception has shifted dramatically in just months. While frustration over Affleck’s past was palpable last year, the current landscape is starkly different, with numerous men facing consequences for their actions.
The question remains: Will the Academy choose to bar Affleck from the ceremony? After expelling Weinstein from their ranks, it seems only fitting that they take a stand against Affleck’s presence. Allowing him to present an award would send a damaging message to survivors everywhere, reinforcing the notion that powerful men can evade accountability.
If the Academy insists on keeping Affleck in the lineup, here are a few suggestions for a more appropriate approach at the ceremony:
- Refrain from applauding when he enters (the bare minimum)
- Have the stage manager ring a bell and announce “shame” during his speech
- Encourage all nominated actresses to unite on stage and address the issue of sexual harassment in the industry
- Or do all of the above
We don’t want to have to devise ways to protest the Oscars—Hollywood should do what’s right. This isn’t just about one man’s past; it’s about a collective future where survivors are respected and heard.
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In summary, the Academy must reconsider Casey Affleck’s role in this year’s awards ceremony and recognize the broader implications of allowing him to present. The time for change is now.