Variety is reporting that the Academy has axed the 'Best Achievement in Popular Film' category.
Their reason? It “merits further study.” No doubt the actual reason has to do with the backlash that occurred after they announced the new category last month, which prompted speculation that it was created solely to prevent 'Black Panther' from nabbing a Best Picture nomination. Well, now it will most probably be nominated for the big prize. Plan failed.
Most pundits were predicting a showdown between "A Star Is Born" and "Black Panther," alas that duel will now have to occur elsewhere.
AMPAS press release went on to state that while they remain committed “to celebrating a wide spectrum of movies" the notion of suddenly adding this new category "creates challenges for films that have already been released.”
Academy CEO Dawn Hudson:
“There has been a wide range of reactions to the introduction of a new award, and we recognize the need for further discussion with our members. We have made changes to the Oscars over the years — including this year — and we will continue to evolve while also respecting the incredible legacy of the last 90 year."
This is music to my ears. Thank the movie Gods the Academy regained their sanity and nixed this idiotic idea.