The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended invitations to several high-profile figures, including Aubrey Plaza, best known for her role in “Emily the Criminal.” The 2024 group also includes pop powerhouse Ariana Grande, star of “Wicked,” and Sebastian Stan, recognized for portraying Donald Trump in “The Apprentice.” This latest round of selections opens the path for these artists to help decide Oscar winners in 2026, reinforcing the Academy’s tradition of recruiting influential voices in film.
In total, the Academy offered membership to 534 individuals—ranging from prominent actors and rising stars to senior executives and industry professionals—adding to a voting body that now exceeds 10,000 members. This broadening of the roster signals a continued effort to diversify perspectives within the organization’s ranks.
Karla Sofía Gascón’s Exclusion Raises Questions and Concerns
While many celebrated the invitations received by Aubrey Plaza and other major talents, the absence of Karla Sofía Gascón drew considerable attention and concern. Gascón, acclaimed for her leading performance in “Emilia Perez,” achieved a historic milestone as the first openly transgender individual nominated in an acting category at the Oscars. Despite automatic consideration typically given to nominees, membership is not a guarantee; the final say rests with the Board of Governors after each Academy branch submits its recommendations.
The move to exclude Gascón comes shortly after controversy surrounded her, stemming from comments about fellow nominee Fernanda Torres and previous social media remarks that included language criticized as disparaging toward Islam. The Academy has yet to comment on the specifics of the decision, and representatives for Gascón and the organization have been approached for clarification.
Achievements Recognized, Honors Bestowed
Though controversy lingers, 2024 has seen “Emilia Perez” win over film critics. The production secured 13 Academy Award nominations, among them Best Picture, and celebrated multiple victories: Zoe Saldaña earned Best Supporting Actress, and the film took home the award for Best Original Song.
In addition to Aubrey Plaza invited to Academy membership and her prominent peers, this year’s group features Fernanda Torres, who made an impact with her performance in “I’m Still Here.” Other new members include Oscar winners Kieran Culkin for “A Real Pain,” Mikey Madison for “Anora,” Margaret Qualley from “The Substance,” and well-known actors such as Gillian Anderson, Jason Momoa, Naomi Ackie, Jodi Comer, Jeremy Strong, and Danielle Deadwyler.
Academy Leaders Express Enthusiasm for New Members
The announcement has been met with optimism from Academy officials. Kramer and Janet Yang, Academy president, released a public message acknowledging this milestone:
“We are thrilled to invite this esteemed class of artists, technologists, and professionals to join the Academy. Through their commitment to filmmaking and to the greater movie industry, these exceptionally talented individuals have made indelible contributions to our global filmmaking community.”
—Kramer and Janet Yang, Academy Leadership
Looking Ahead: Impact and Expectations
The inclusion of Aubrey Plaza, Ariana Grande, and other celebrated figures further amplifies the diversity of viewpoints shaping future Oscar deliberations. Meanwhile, the decision not to offer membership to pioneering actors like Karla Sofía Gascón has sparked animated debates about how the Academy chooses to recognize accomplishment and navigate public controversy. As the next Oscars draw closer, attention will remain fixed on how these changes and controversies influence both the ceremony and the industry at large.
