Idris Elba, Vivica A. Fox, Michael B. Jordan – these are just some of the new names set to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences going forward.
The 2016 Oscars came in for severe criticism following a nominees list that included little actors/actresses of colour, despite many of them having huge years and starring in some of the highest grossing movies.
The ‘OscarsSoWhite’ controversy that followed dented the image of the Academy, and President Cheryl Boonee Isaacs promised to tackle the issue going forward.
The Academy has thus announced a list of possible new entrants, and several actors of colour, and women, have been invited to create a more diverse motion picture Academy.
“The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is extending invitations to join the organization to 683 artists and executives who have distinguished themselves by their contributions to theatrical motion pictures.  Those who accept the invitations will be the only additions to the Academy’s membership in 2016.” The Academy said.
“18 individuals (noted by an asterisk) have been invited to join the Academy by multiple branches.  These individuals must select one branch upon accepting membership.
“New members will be welcomed into the Academy at an invitation-only reception in the fall.” The statement concludes.
The new members include the aforementioned actors, as well as John Boyega, Eva Mendes, Gabrielle Union and Ice Cube.
You can check out the full list at the Academy’s website here.