As fears rise of a surge in coronavirus cases fuelled by the Omicron variety, the Governors Awards, an annual dinner when honorary Oscars are given out, was the latest lavish Hollywood event postponed Wednesday.
Actors Samuel L Jackson and Danny Glover, as well as Liv Ullmann of Norway and actress-director Elaine May, were set to be honored with golden statuettes next month at an event that usually attracts a who’s who of Hollywood.
In a statement, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced, “We have made the difficult decision to change our plans in holding the Governors Awards in person on January 15.”
“Given the uncertainties around the variants, and the impact this could have on our community, we feel this is the best and safest decision for our honorees and guests.”
For this season’s Governors Awards, the Academy said “rescheduled plans will come at a later date.” The main Academy Awards event is still scheduled for March 27.
The annual film award season in Hollywood has resumed in recent months, with a return to the traditional in-person premieres, galas, and receptions.
However, in the last few days, some activities have been canceled or postponed.
The star-studded Critics Choice Awards dinner was also postponed from its original January date on Wednesday.
