Hey movie fans Oscar night is always full of surprises but this year there was a surprise even before the red carpet rolled out. Rumors were flying that former Vice President Kamala Harris might be making a special appearance at the 97th Academy Awards. This news caused a security frenzy in Hollywood but guess what? She ended up watching from her couch just like many of us!
From Red Carpet Ready to Couch Comfort: Kamala Harris' Oscars Sunday Surprise
It all started with whispers then reports that Kamala Harris was expected to attend the Oscars. No one was sure if she was presenting an award or just attending but the buzz was real. Suddenly Hollywood's security went into overdrive. We are talking next-level lockdown usually reserved for major presidential visits.
Sources said security around the Dolby Theatre was tighter than ever. Law enforcement federal agents and private security were everywhere. Streets were blocked off bomb squads were on site and even K-9 units were sniffing every vehicle. One officer mentioned "All vehicles have to let the dogs in" It was intense. A federal official even told news outlets "We live in a new evolving security environment" and that the expected attendance of the former VP was a "major factor" in the boosted security.
"Oscars Watch Party Prep": Doug Emhoff's Tweet Throws Cold Water on Attendance Rumors
Just when everyone was expecting a surprise Kamala Harris Oscar appearance her husband Doug Emhoff posted a photo on social media. The picture showed Harris at home looking comfy in a sweatshirt and jeans. She was in her kitchen pouring Doritos into a bowl. The caption? "Oscars watch party prep."
Boom! Just like that the rumors were put to rest. Kamala Harris was not hitting the red carpet after all. She was having a relaxed Oscars night at home with snacks just like many viewers across the country. The tweet confirmed what an Academy source had earlier hinted at that the VP was "not" actually coming.
Why the Oscar Security Overdrive? Even Without Harris Attendance Security Was "At an All-Time High"
Even though Kamala Harris ultimately skipped the Oscars the security measures were already in place and remained incredibly heavy. Why was security so amplified this year? Officials mentioned the "new evolving security environment". While they stated "there are no credible threats" the overall atmosphere is clearly different now.
Heightened security is becoming the norm at big events like the Oscars. Drone protection bomb squads street closures and pre-screened media are all part of the modern awards show landscape. One security expert noted "law enforcement wants to show force and act as a deterrent" making it clear the area is fortified.
Some industry insiders joked that the Academy's old-school security measures felt a bit outdated compared to current AI technology. Regardless heavy security or not the Oscars still went on and Hollywood managed to create its protective "Tinseltown dome" around the Dolby Theatre for the night.
From NAACP Image Awards to Bryan Lourd's Soiree: Kamala Harris' Busy Pre-Oscar Schedule
While she didn't attend the Oscars themselves Kamala Harris was definitely active on the awards circuit recently. Just a week before the Oscars she received the Chairman's Award at the NAACP Image Awards in Los Angeles. There she gave a powerful speech warning about "shadows gathering over our democracy" without directly naming her former political rival.
She also attended CAA boss Bryan Lourd's private Oscar party the weekend before the ceremony joining a crowd of A-list celebrities. It seems even though she is no longer in office she is still engaged in public life and connected to the Hollywood scene. It was also recently announced that Harris signed with CAA last month further solidifying her ties to the entertainment industry.
Oscars Still Star-Studded Despite VP No-Show: Red Carpet Glamour and Political Statements
Even without Kamala Harris the 97th Academy Awards were still a major celebrity event. Stars graced the red carpet in stunning outfits some making political statements with their fashion choices. Actor Guy Pearce for example wore a Palestine pin showing his support for the Palestinian people.
Despite some celebrity absences and the security buzz the Oscars ceremony itself went on as planned. Producers hinted at heartfelt moments and special reunions during the show. Conan O'Brien hosted for the first time adding his comedic touch to the evening. Even if Kamala Harris was watching from home there was still plenty of Hollywood drama and excitement to go around on Oscars night.
Why Some Stars Skipped the 2025 Oscars: Beyond Kamala Harris
Interestingly Kamala Harris wasn't the only notable figure absent from the Oscars. Several big-name actresses also skipped the ceremony for various reasons. Here are a few examples:
- Nicole Kidman: Her movie "Babygirl" was surprisingly not nominated for any major awards.
- Zendaya: Her film "Challengers" was completely overlooked by the Academy.
- Angelina Jolie: Was not nominated and not presenting.
- Jennifer Lawrence: Pregnant with her second child and due soon.
- Margot Robbie: Recently gave birth and has been out of the public eye.
- Pamela Anderson: Her film "The Last Showgirl" was not recognized by the Oscars.
- Anya Taylor-Joy: Had a small role in "Dune: Part Two" and chose to stay home.
- Rihanna: No new movie projects this year focused on her brands and music.
So while Kamala Harris' potential attendance caused a security stir many celebrities simply had other things going on or no direct connection to the awards this year. The Oscars are always a huge event but even Hollywood's biggest night can see some empty seats.