Academy Membership Reaches New Highs, Reflecting Increased Diversity
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The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has reached a total membership of 11,104, following an invitation to 534 new members in June. This represents important growth over the past decade, nearly doubling the organization’s size from the approximately 5,800 members reported in 2012.
The current membership breakdown reveals a more diverse Academy, with 33 percent identifying as women and 24 percent from underrepresented communities. Furthermore, 24 percent of members reside outside of the United States, distributed as follows:
* 43 in Africa
* 309 in asia
* 1,683 in Europe
* 334 in North America beyond the U.S.
* 217 in Oceania
* 113 in South America
The 2012 Los Angeles Times report indicated that the Academy was only 6 percent non-white and 23 percent female at that time, highlighting a substantial shift towards greater inclusivity in recent years.
A More Inclusive Oscars: Celebrating Firsts and Expanding Global Reach
The changes are making a difference on the Oscar stage. At the most recent ceremony, Zoe Saldaña became the first American of Dominican descent to prevail. “I am floored by this honor,” the Best Supporting Actress winner stated at the podium. Meanwhile,Wicked costume designer Paul Tazewell became the first Black man to win his Best Costume Design category.
In addition, the Academy has prioritized expanding its global reach by inviting filmmakers from a wider range of countries and cultural backgrounds. This shift has had a direct impact on the types of films that are nominated, especially for the coveted Best Picture prize.
‘House of the Dragon’ Season 2: Everything You Need to Know
The highly anticipated second season of HBO’s “House of the Dragon” is set to premiere on June 16, 2024. Based on George R.R. Martin’s “Fire & Blood,” this season delves deeper into the escalating conflict between the Targaryen family, ultimately leading to the Dance of the Dragons – a brutal civil war that will tear Westeros apart.
What to expect in Season 2
Season 2 will focus heavily on the growing rift between Rhaenyra Targaryen (Emma D’Arcy) and Alicent Hightower (Olivia Cooke), and their respective factions. The death of King Viserys I (Paddy Considine) at the end of Season 1 served as the catalyst, and the new season will explore the immediate aftermath and the power struggle that ensues. Expect political maneuvering, strategic alliances, and, of course, dragon battles.
Key storylines will include:
- Rhaenyra’s Claim: Rhaenyra’s ascension to the iron Throne will be challenged by Aegon II Targaryen (Tom Glynn-Carney), Alicent’s son, who is crowned king by his supporters.
- The Greens vs. The Blacks: The conflict will be largely defined by these two factions – the “Greens” supporting Aegon and the “Blacks” rallying behind Rhaenyra.
- Dragon Combat: The Dance of the Dragons is famous for its aerial warfare. Season 2 promises more spectacular dragon sequences as the two sides clash.
- Character Advancement: Expect further exploration of key characters like Daemon Targaryen (Matt Smith), Criston Cole (Fabian Frankel), and Otto Hightower (Rhys Ifans).
Cast Updates
The core cast returns for Season 2, including:
- Emma D’Arcy as Rhaenyra Targaryen
- Olivia Cooke as Alicent Hightower
- Matt Smith as Daemon Targaryen
- Tom Glynn-Carney as Aegon II Targaryen
- rhys Ifans as Otto Hightower
- Fabian Frankel as Criston Cole
Several new faces join the cast this season, including Gayle Rankin as Alys Rivers and Clinton Liberty as Addam Velaryon, adding further complexity to the already intricate web of relationships.
Trailer and Release Details
The official trailer for Season 2 has been released, offering a glimpse of the impending war and the intense drama to come. Watch the trailer here.
“House of the Dragon” Season 2 premieres on HBO and Max on June 16, 2024, with eight episodes. Episodes will be released weekly on Sundays at 9 p.m. ET/PT.
Source: Gold Derby