The 98th Academy Awards will be presented on March 15. Fewer people watch the Oscars on TV than in the past, but the show still has cultural importance.
David Tarleton, a film professor at Syracuse University, says an Oscar win or a nomination often helps careers. It can increase box office and sometimes double a person’s salary for their next job.
Viewing habits have changed: some people watch the red carpet or fashion, others prefer highlights and memes. The Academy is also changing rules and the show format to attract younger viewers, and from 2029 the awards will stream on YouTube.
Difficult words
- nomination — choice of someone for a prize
- box office — money people pay to see films
- salary — money a person earns for work
- meme — funny image or video shared onlinememes
- stream — watch or send video over the internet
- cultural — connected to arts and community ideas
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you prefer to watch a full awards show or only highlights? Why?
- Do you think awards help a person's career? Give one reason.
- Would you watch the awards on YouTube if they stream there? Why or why not?
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