LOS ANGELES – The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended invitations to 534 new members, marking the largest induction since 2020. Notable invitees include Ariana Grande, Mikey Madison, and Kieran Culkin, alongside other industry luminaries.
Immediate Impact
The 2025 Academy Award winners and nominees, such as Ariana Grande and Brandi Carlile, have been invited to join the prestigious organization. This announcement comes as the Academy continues its efforts to diversify its membership, a response to past criticisms over representation.
Key Details Emerge
Among the invitees are Hamdan Ballal, a Palestinian filmmaker recently in the news following his detention in Israel, and Conan O’Brien, the current Oscars host. The list also includes industry executives and talent agents, reflecting a broad spectrum of the film industry.
The list of 534 invitees is the largest since 2020, a year that saw record-breaking induction numbers.
Industry Response
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and outgoing president Janet Yang expressed enthusiasm about the new class. “We are thrilled to invite this esteemed class of artists, technologists, and professionals to join the Academy,” they said in a statement. The move is seen as a continuation of the Academy’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
By the Numbers
Of the 2025 invitees, 41% are women, 45% hail from underrepresented communities, and 55% are based outside of the United States.
Background Context
This development builds on the Academy’s previous efforts to address the #OscarsSoWhite controversy, which highlighted a lack of diversity among its ranks. The organization has since made strides to recruit members from a variety of backgrounds.
What Comes Next
If all invitees accept, the Academy’s total membership will reach 11,120, with 10,143 voting members. The timing is particularly significant as the Academy prepares for future award seasons with a more diverse voting body.
Expert Analysis
According to sources familiar with the Academy’s strategy, the inclusion of international members and those from underrepresented communities is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the organization. This move represents a significant shift from its historically homogenous membership.
Meanwhile, industry experts warn that while the Academy’s efforts are commendable, continuous action is necessary to maintain momentum in achieving genuine diversity.
The announcement comes as the film industry faces increasing scrutiny over representation both in front of and behind the camera. The Academy’s latest move is a step towards addressing these challenges, with the potential to influence the industry’s future direction.
