The 97th Academy Awards is one of the most anticipated events in Hollywood, 

but for many ITV viewers, the network’s coverage of the prestigious ceremony has been less than enjoyable. 

Hosted by Jonathan Ross, ITV’s Oscars panel features actor Jason Isaacs, journalist Mariella Frostrup, and film expert Elle Osili-Wood. 

However, it wasn’t long before viewers expressed their frustration over comments made by one of the guests regarding an Oscar-nominated film.

Controversial Comments on The Substance

Ahead of the awards ceremony at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, Jonathan Ross and his panelists discussed The Substance, a body horror film that has earned critical acclaim and secured Demi Moore her first-ever Oscar nomination at the age of 62. 

While many have praised the film for its bold storytelling and Moore’s captivating performance, not everyone on the ITV panel shared the same enthusiasm.

Mariella Frostrup, a well-known journalist and broadcaster, was particularly critical of the film, calling it “a very strange choice” for the Best Picture category. She elaborated, stating, “If you like gore, you will love it. If you don’t, there’s not much to take home.” Frostrup further argued that the film’s inclusion in the Oscars lineup was more about its themes than its actual execution. “The reason it is in there is because it feels like it’s important. It’s about aging, it’s about masochism, but it’s a headline film with very little underneath it,” she stated.

Her comments didn’t stop there, as she questioned the film’s overall impact. “I don’t think it explores anything it sets out to confront. Frankly, Demi is described as a fading actress, but she is absolutely drop-dead gorgeous. If I looked like her naked, I’d take my clothes off all the time. If you start to unpick it, it makes no sense whatsoever. It is not an important film in what it has to say,” she concluded.

Viewers React with Outrage

The remarks didn’t sit well with ITV viewers, who took to social media to voice their frustration. Many accused Frostrup of dismissing the film without understanding its significance, while others felt she was being unnecessarily harsh.

“Get this blonde bobbed lady off this sofa. Hating The Substance AND Anora? Have some FUN! #ITVOscars,” one viewer ranted on social media.

Another echoed the sentiment, stating, “That blonde *** slagging off The Substance needs to be thrown in the bin. Maybe get people who understand the films before putting them on the panel? #ITVOscars.”

Others felt that Frostrup was disregarding the horror genre entirely. “This woman clearly just doesn’t respect the horror genre. Saying The Substance has no message??? #ITVOscars,” another frustrated fan wrote.

ITV’s Oscars Coverage Under Scrutiny

While the primary focus of the night should be the celebration of cinematic excellence, ITV’s coverage has instead drawn criticism for what some perceive as an out-of-touch and dismissive attitude toward certain films. Viewers have long had mixed reactions to the network’s approach to major events, with this year’s Oscars being no exception.

Jonathan Ross, who has hosted ITV’s Oscars coverage multiple times, has generally been well received, but some viewers believe the choice of panelists could have been better curated. Many suggested that film critics with a deeper appreciation for all genres—including horror—would have been more suitable for the discussion.

The Oscars Night Continues

Despite the controversy, the Academy Awards continued with much excitement. As the ceremony unfolded, a special video tribute highlighted various locations in California, including the iconic Hollywood Hills sign, in what appeared to be a nod to the devastating wildfires that have impacted the region. This tribute concluded with the message, “We love LA.”

Ariana Grande then took to the stage in a striking red dress and ruby slippers, performing Somewhere Over the Rainbow in a powerful homage to The Wizard of Oz.

Meanwhile, Demi Moore remains a strong contender for Best Actress. With a successful awards season behind her, including a major win at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, many believe this could be the moment she finally takes home her first Oscar.

A Night of Highs and Lows

While the Academy Awards continues to be an evening of celebration, ITV’s coverage has clearly left some viewers unimpressed. Whether the network will take this feedback into account for future broadcasts remains to be seen. One thing is certain—Oscars night is never without its fair share of drama, and this year, it began even before the awards were handed out.

Follow us to see more useful information, as well as to give us more motivation to update more useful information for you.