The announcement that the Oscars ceremony will relocate from the iconic Dolby Theatre in Hollywood to the L.A. Live complex starting in 2029 has sparked mixed reactions across the film industry. However, longtime Academy member and veteran publicist Bruce Feldman has expressed support for the move, while also raising concerns about how the decision was made.
Feldman, who has been part of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences since 1986, shared that the change does not come as a surprise to him. Having witnessed the Oscars being hosted at multiple venues over the decades, he believes that evolution is natural—even for an institution as tradition-driven as the Academy Awards.
Reflecting on his experience, Feldman noted that the ceremony has previously been held at locations such as the Pantages Theatre Santa Monica Civic Auditorium Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and Shrine Auditorium before settling at the Dolby Theatre for over two decades. For him, shifting to a new venue represents progress rather than disruption.
One of the key advantages of the move is the significantly larger capacity of the Peacock Theater at L.A. Live. With over 7000 seats compared to the Dolby Theatre’s roughly 3300, the new venue offers an opportunity for more Academy members to attend the ceremony in person. Feldman emphasized that access to the Oscars has long been limited, with many members relying on a lottery system that rarely guarantees entry.
Despite welcoming the relocation, Feldman criticized the Academy’s leadership for not involving its members in such a major decision. He pointed out that throughout his 40-year membership, leadership has consistently made significant changes without seeking broader input from members.
He cited several past decisions—including changes to the Best Picture category introduction of new award concepts and adjustments to the live telecast—that were implemented without consultation and sometimes later reconsidered. According to Feldman, this pattern raises concerns about transparency and governance within the organization.
While he remains proud of his association with the Academy, Feldman admitted that such practices diminish the sense of inclusion among members. He concluded by expressing hope that although members were not consulted on the venue shift, more of them will at least have the opportunity to attend the ceremony at its new home in the future.
