The greatest showman of Indian cinema; Raj Kapoor, has been named executive producer and showrunner of the upcoming Oscars ceremony.
The 96th Academy Awards will be broadcast live on Sunday, March 10, 2024, from LA’s Dolby Theatre. According to the event’s organizers, Hamish Hamilton will direct the ceremony, and Katy Mullan will serve as executive producer.
Raj has worked on the show for the past seven years and most recently served as producer for the 95th Academy Awards. This will be Hamish’s fourth time serving as the event’s director.
Katy and Raj stated: “As a Canadian boy of South Asian descent and a girl from London who grew up watching the Oscars, dreaming of being part of it, this is a ‘pinch me’ moment!
“This has been an exceptional year for the movies, and it’s an absolute privilege to be leading the team celebrating the global film industry and the astounding talents that bring these cinematic stories to life. We’re dedicated to making it a remarkable celebration for all.”
In a joint statement, Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang stated: “Raj and Hamish have been incredible Oscars collaborators, and we are delighted to welcome them and Katy to lead the 96th Oscars.
“Their deep love of cinema, fresh vision, and tremendous live television expertise is perfect for our reinvigorated show.”
Rob Mills, executive vice president of Unscripted and Alternative Entertainment at Walt Disney Television, said: “Having worked with Raj, Katy, and Hamish on many special and memorable projects over the years, we have full confidence in their vision for the 96th Oscars.”
Other team members returning from last year’s Oscars are creative director Kenny Gravillis, and production designers Misty Buckley and Alana Billingsley.
Red carpet show executive producer David Chamberlin and the carpet’s creative consultants Lisa Love and Raúl Àvila are also making a comeback.
Disney-owned ABC has exclusive rights to the Academy Awards broadcast until 2028.
The ratings for the award ceremony during last year’s televised ceremony were the lowest ever.
