Lynette Howell Taylor and Stephanie Allain are set to produce the 92nd Oscars, a press release announced. Slated to take place February 9, 2020, this year’s ceremony will mark the pair’s first involvement with the Academy Awards. Their fresh perspectives couldn’t be more welcome. As the founder of 51 Entertainment, Howell Taylor champions filmmaker-driven content and, in her own words, “equality, diversity, and inclusion.” The company’s first release was “Unicorn Store,” Brie Larson’s feature directorial debut. Allain’s company, Homegrown Pictures, produces content by and about women and people of color.
Oscar nominations haven’t been announced yet — they drop January 13 — so it remains to be seen whether it’ll be another year of #OscarsSoWhite and #OscarsSoMale.
“The combined producing talents of Lynette and Stephanie will bring dynamism and excitement to the 92nd Oscars show,” said Academy President David Rubin. “Their vast production experience ranges from groundbreaking independent film to global blockbuster. We look forward to collaborating with them to bring an unforgettable Oscars event to movie fans around the world.”
Howell Taylor and Allain added, “We have both watched the Oscars for as long as we can remember, and to be given the opportunity to produce the show is a dream. It’s an honor and a thrill to join forces to deliver an entertaining show that celebrates the artistry of this year’s best films.”
Academy CEO Dawn Hudson emphasized that she has “every confidence” that the pair “will deliver a high-caliber performance,” and ABC Entertainment President Kary Burke praised Howell Taylor and Allain’s “impeccable taste,” and went on to say that they are “at the top of their field, and have such a distinct and wonderful way of captivating audiences with storytelling that is compelling, creative, and filled with superstars.”
Howell Taylor received a Best Picture Oscar nomination for “A Star Is Born.” Her other credits include “6 Balloons” and “Mississippi Grind.”
“Hustle & Flow” and “Dear White People” are among Allain’s credits. A founding ambassador of ReFrame, which works improve gender representation across all areas of the film industry, she also serves on the Board of Women in Film.
The Oscars will be televised live in more than 225 countries and territories worldwide.
