Despite being welcomed by awards shows, film festivals, and the New York Stock Exchange in the past year, Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been denied a spot on the Oscars telecast for the second year in a row.
Zelenskyy’s request for a virtual appearance on Sunday’s show Oscars 2023 was turned down by the Academy, with sources revealing that WME power agent Mike Simpson made a plea for the actor-turned-politician’s inclusion. The Academy did not comment on the matter.
Zelenskyy’s efforts to be featured on the Oscars 2023 come as polls show declining American support for assisting Ukraine. Last year, Oscars producer Will Packer rejected a Zelenskyy appearance, citing concerns that Hollywood was only giving Ukraine attention because the conflict affects white people.
