14 Things You Didn’t Know Were Banned at the Oscars
From selfie sticks to fake weapons, the Oscars have surprisingly strict bans behind the glitz, revealing how Hollywood’s biggest night keeps the drama on screen and out of the theater.
- Alyana Aguja
- 4 min read
The Oscars are the ultimate spectacle of glamour and talent, but in the background, the Academy imposes some surprising prohibitions to ensure the evening is running smoothly and safely. From banning selfie sticks and political demonstrations to prohibiting fake guns and bulky backpacks, these regulations guarantee attention is on the art — not anarchy. Explore the astonishing realm of Oscars prohibitions that demonstrate even Hollywood’s most glitzy night has its strict side.
1. Selfie Sticks
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During the 2014 Oscar ceremonies, selfie sticks were formally prohibited within the auditorium. The Academy had hoped to avoid distractions and maintain the ceremony’s glamour. Following Ellen DeGeneres’s infamous tweet of a star-filled selfie that went viral, they cracked down on visitors and fans attempting to snap similar photographs during the live broadcast.
2. Pitchforks
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In 2019, pitchforks were prohibited following a confrontation between protesters at the ceremony. The Academy preemptively banned any type of weapon-similar props or pointed objects to ensure safety and order. The prohibition includes anything that may be used disruptively to keep the event safe and smooth.
3. Drugs and Alcohol
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Even with the glamour and glitz, the Oscars maintain a no-drug, no-excessive-alcohol policy backstage and at the event. The Academy doesn’t want any scandals or irresponsible behavior, so substance use is under tight watch. This also ensures that the ceremony remains professional and respectful for everyone present.
4. Non-Invited Guests
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Only invited individuals with credentials are allowed to the Oscars venue. The Academy prohibits “crashers” to maintain a controlled and exclusive event. The policy also prevents gatecrashers from disrupting the event or posing a security issue.
5. Political Protests or Statements
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The Academy has also had an uneasy history with political statements, usually frowning on overt protests on the Oscar stage. Overtly political acceptance speeches are sometimes tolerated, but organized protests or signs in the auditorium are prohibited to maintain the focus on the art, rather than activism. They prefer that the ceremony continue as a celebration, rather than a political forum.
6. Inappropriate Dress Codes
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The Oscars are notoriously glamorous, and the Academy maintains a strict dress code — no sloppy wear or inappropriate fashion. In previous years, guests who dressed too casually or too provocatively were turned away or asked to leave and change. This keeps the event refined and aligned with Hollywood’s red carpet heritage.
7. Phones in Certain Areas
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Though visitors may bring phones, the Academy prohibits phone usage within the press room and certain areas backstage to avoid leaks and unauthorized shooting. This keeps management over what images and videos are made public, maintaining some suspense and intrigue surrounding the ceremony’s moments.
8. Guests Bringing Pets
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No animals are permitted inside the Dolby Theatre for the Oscars. It is a safety, cleanliness, and distraction-free measure. Despite the random celebrity’s fondness for animals, pets must remain outside.
9. Cheating on Voting
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The Academy has strict regulations prohibiting any kind of tampering or cheating during Oscar voting. The integrity of the awards rests on members’ fair and confidential voting. Anybody found attempting to tamper with the results gets disqualified or banned.
10. Large Bags or Backpacks
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For security purposes during the Oscars, large backpacks and bags are prohibited. Guests are required to carry only small clutches or purses. This measure accelerates security screening and minimizes the introduction of contraband or forbidden substances into the awards venue.
11. Political Campaigning Materials
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Whereas films and actors hawk their productions, distributing political campaign literature or endorsing particular candidates is prohibited. The Oscars wish to remain above partisanship as a form of entertainment. This maintains the ceremony free of external political influences.
12. Outside Food and Beverages
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Guests are not allowed to bring food or beverages from outside into the theater. The Academy regulates catering to keep things up to par and prevent spills or disruptions. This prevents the facility from getting dirty and unprofessional during the event.
13. Live Streaming
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Live streaming the Oscars from within the venue without authorization is prohibited. Unauthorized broadcasts have the potential to infringe on copyrights and lower TV ratings, keeping the official broadcast as the sole means of viewing the ceremony.
14. Weapons or Replica Props
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Fake weapons or replica props from movies are also prohibited at the event. The Academy does not allow anything that may cause alarm or be confused with real weapons. The prohibition favors a safe, peaceful atmosphere for all attendees.