'Gross slap to the actual nominees': Academy faces backlash over BLACKPINK's Lisa performing at Oscars 2025
BLACKPINK member Lisa is going to make history, becoming the first K-pop artist ever to perform at the Oscars 2025. However, netizens aren't impressed with the Academy's decision to host the K-pop star as a performer, as many believe the nominees should have been given a chance.
Being the greatest of all time is no fantasy for Lisa of BLACKPINK. The singer-actress is set to light up the 97th Academy Awards, becoming the first K-pop star to perform at the Oscars. For her hotly anticipated performance, the Thai superstar will be joined by Doja Cat and Raye, who also featured on her track Born Again off her debut album, Alter Ego.
Lisa is set to perform at the Oscars 2025 with Raye and Doja Cat
On Monday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that Lisa of BLACKPINK, Raye, and Doja Cat will perform at the 2025 Oscars. Rumours of Lisa's performance at the Oscars had been swirling since the release of her song Born Again, and the Academy has now confirmed the same as it announced its list of performers for its March 2 telecast.
Three global superstars. One epic #Oscars moment. Doja Cat, LISA of Blackpink, and RAYE take the stage for a showstopping celebration of cinema.
¡ª The Academy (@TheAcademy) February 24, 2025
Watch the Oscars LIVE Sunday, March 2, at 7e/4p on ABC and Hulu, with Conan O¡¯Brien hosting. Expect the unexpected¡ªonly at the Oscars. pic.twitter.com/Tv8PoHWjL8
Lisa will not be performing Born Again at the Oscars
With Doja Cat and Raye joining Lisa on stage, everyone naturally assumed they'd be performing Born Again, their recent collaboration. But the Academy had other plans, teasing fans with a cryptic message: "Not 'Born Again!' But still legendary. Stay tuned.". Now fans are left wondering if the trio will be debuting a new song or covering another song from their discography.
Who else is performing at the Oscars 2025?
Other performers confirmed for the event include Wicked co-stars Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, and Queen Latifah. The ceremony will be hosted by Conan O'Brien and broadcast live on ABC, with streaming available on Hulu.
In a departure from tradition, this year's nominees for Best Original Song and Best Original Soundtrack will not be taking the stage to perform. Instead, the Academy will pay tribute to the talented songwriters through special "personal reflections" from the creative teams behind the nominated songs.
Netizens slam Academy for roping in Lisa as performer
While Lisa's upcoming performance at the Oscars is a milestone moment for the K-pop community, film enthusiasts worldwide are expressing disappointment and discontent. Many argue that the Academy should prioritize showcasing veteran artists, rather than a performer who might be better suited for an event like the Grammys. Critics also contend that the Academy is depriving more deserving artists of opportunities, sparking debate about the decision.
"How did they manage to book this slot? I thought only the nominees were allowed to perform. Didn¡¯t expect the Academy to sell out for this," one person wrote.
How did they manage to book this slot? I thought only the nominees are allowed to perform. ?
¡ª Pop Junkie (@popjunki3) February 24, 2025
Didn¡¯t expect the Academy to sellout for this
"This is such a gross slap in the face to the actual nominees. No hate for these three women, but how are you going to tell the Oscar nominees they can¡¯t perform their songs and then bring in some randoms to perform? Film lovers are tuning in for the MOVIES, not the music," another wrote.
This is such a gross slap in the face to the actual nominees. No hate for these three women, but how are you going to tell the Oscar nominees they can¡¯t perform their songs and then bring in some randoms to perform? Film lovers are tuning in for the MOVIES not the music.
¡ª BarbzKenDoll (@BarbzKenDoll) February 24, 2025
A third mentioned, "What is the context for this presentation? It has nothing to do with the Oscars, nor is it a song featured in any of the nominated movies."
What is the context for this presentation? It has nothing to do with the Oscars nor is it a song featured in any of the nominated movies
¡ª Jes¨²solivera (@Jessoli51639008) February 24, 2025
"This song has 0 relevance to ¡°celebration of cinema¡±. Since when do non-tributes or songs not in movies or shows get performed!!???" another X user wrote.
This song has 0 relevance to ¡°celebration of cinema¡±. Since when do non tributes or songs no in movies or shows get performed !!???
¡ª Hold me in your heart tonight (@LauzonZach33255) February 24, 2025
Meanwhile, Lisa is slated to release her first full-length album, Alter Ego, on February 28.
For more news and updates from the world of OTT, and celebrities from Bollywood and Hollywood, keep reading Indiatimes Entertainment.
As an Entertainment Content Writer with 3+ Years of experience, I have been keeping a keen eye on who wore what. A self confessed Koreaboo, I am your fangirl next door. Ps: I take pride in saying that I grew up watching "It's Controversial" as a kid.
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