Oscars 2023: Drama, Absences, and Unexpected Appearances

The 2023 Oscars, hosted by Jimmy Kimmel at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, kicked off with a mix of humor and tension.

Kimmel, in his opening remarks, emphasized the importance of nominees having fun and feeling safe, but slyly added, “most importantly, we want me to feel safe.”

Drawing laughter from the audience, he referenced Will Smith's iconic song “Get Jiggy With It” and playfully warned any celebrities considering retaliation against jokes that actors like Michael B. Jordan, Andrew Garfield, and Michelle Yeoh were ready to protect him.

Continuing the lighthearted tone, Kimmel humorously mentioned the infamous slap incident involving Will Smith, quipping about missing the drama as the show progressed.

Meanwhile, Chris Rock took a more serious turn by expressing frustration over Meghan Markle's allegations against the royal family, challenging her claims of ignorance about Prince Harry's background before joining the monarchy in 2020.

Despite expectations, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were notably absent from the star-studded event, leaving their supporters disappointed and sparking mockery from royal family fans who felt snubbed by their no-show.

As Hollywood luminaries graced the Oscars' champagne-colored carpet in dazzling ensembles, the Sussexes' absence fueled speculation about their shifting relationships within the entertainment industry.

While Prince Harry and Meghan Markle faced backlash for their statements regarding racism within the royal family, rumors swirled about their exclusion from prestigious Oscars after-parties, including Elton John's exclusive gathering.

The couple's absence from the entire Oscars event, including the lack of mentions during live broadcasts and post-show coverage, raised eyebrows and intensified speculations about their status in Hollywood circles.

In a surprising twist, Fergie, the Duchess of York, emerged as a potential attendee at the Oscars, with insiders hinting at her close ties to the Presley family and a planned award presentation.

Fergie's rumored appearance at the awards ceremony signaled a desire to establish a presence in the United States and distance herself from past controversies, including her ex-husband Prince Andrew's scandalous reputation.

Echoing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's aspirations for a fresh start in America, Fergie's rumored Oscar attendance symbolized a strategic move to redefine her public image and embrace new opportunities across the Atlantic.

Despite lingering connections to the British royal family and past marital drama, Fergie's potential Oscars appearance hinted at a significant shift towards a more American-centric future, resonating with the evolving narratives of other high-profile figures navigating international transitions.