Oscars 2025: Jane Fonda's Speech, Artists4Ceasefire Pins, and 'The Apprentice' Stir Debate

The upcoming 97th Academy Awards, scheduled for Sunday, are unfolding against the backdrop of a politically cautious Hollywood, as the industry grapples with the return of Donald Trump to the White House. Traditionally outspoken during awards seasons, Hollywood has largely avoided overt political commentary this year, with some exceptions such as Jane Fonda's recent SAG Awards speech criticizing the erosion of democratic norms in the U.S. Fonda, 87, used her platform to call for empathy and activism. Conan O'Brien, hosting the Oscars for the first time, is expected to maintain a more apolitical tone compared to previous hosts like Jimmy Kimmel, reflecting the industry's cautious stance. O'Brien himself has been personally affected by January's devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, which displaced many in the entertainment community. The Oscars also face controversy over political symbols, with groups like Artists4Ceasefire and the Brigade clashing over the use of pins advocating for peace in Gaza. The Brigade has criticized the pins as offensive, while Artists4Ceasefire continues to promote their message. Meanwhile, the biographical film 'The Apprentice,' depicting Trump's early career, has drawn attention with nominations for actors Sebastian Stan and Jeremy Strong, despite legal and political challenges from Trump himself, who labeled the film defamatory. The broader cultural landscape reflects a tension between Trump's policies, including actions against diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, and Hollywood's historical advocacy for progressive causes. Observers note that the Oscars remain a platform for addressing these societal and political dynamics.