The glitz and glamour of the 96th Academy Awards dazzled audiences worldwide, but one notable absence had everyone buzzing: Matt Damon. Speculation swirled as to why the star of “Oppenheimer,” a major contender at the awards, was not among the glittering attendees. While Damon’s absence was felt, the night had its share of memorable moments, including a surprising show-stealer: Messi the dog. So, why wasn’t Matt Damon at the Oscars? This article will explore what to know about the 96th Academy Awards.
A Long-standing Feud and a Four-legged Star
The Oscars often serve as a celebration of cinematic achievements and a stage for some lighthearted jests among Hollywood’s elite. This year’s host, Jimmy Kimmel, seized the opportunity to poke fun at his perennial “nemesis,” Matt Damon.
In a scene that had viewers do a double-take, Messi the dog, star of “Anatomy of a Fall,” was caught on camera next to Damon’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, humorously pretending to mark his territory. This subtle jab was a continuation of the playful feud between Kimmel and Damon, which fans of both celebrities have come to enjoy over the years.
Why Wasn’t Matt Damon at the Oscars?
Despite his significant role in “Oppenheimer,” which scooped up seven Oscars, Damon was conspicuously absent from the event, sparking curiosity and conjecture. Jimmy Kimmel later quipped that Damon couldn’t secure a ticket to the prestigious ceremony, a jest playing into their ongoing comedic rivalry.
Kimmel told CNN, “It’s one of the saddest things I’ve ever heard. He asked if he could come, and they told him, ‘Sorry – nominees only.’” This tongue-in-cheek comment suggests that Damon’s non-nomination for a supporting actor role might have been the reason behind his absence at the Dolby Theater.
Nevertheless, Damon did not let this hiccup dampen his spirits. He was spotted at the Vanity Fair post-Oscars party with his wife, Luciana Barroso, celebrating the success of “Oppenheimer” alongside his peers. It seems the star opted for a quieter entrance this year, avoiding the main event’s limelight, possibly to sidestep any awkward moments given the satirical nature of his public “feud” with Kimmel.
Messi the Dog: Stealing Hearts and Scenes
Amid the night’s high fashion and high emotions, Messi the dog emerged as an unexpected icon. Dressed in an oversized bowtie, Messi got his own seat and captured hearts with his charming presence. Kimmel humorously suggested in his opening monologue that Messi might have delivered “the performance of the year despite being a canine.” This light-hearted acknowledgment highlights how the Oscars can still surprise and delight with moments of whimsy and warmth, making it a uniquely inclusive event.
In a night filled with stars, it was these light moments—whether a celebrity feud played for laughs or a dog’s endearing antics—that enriched the narrative of the Oscars, proving once again why it remains the most anticipated event in Hollywood’s calendar.