Kamala Harris has unexpectedly turned up at this year’s Oscars – reportedly sparking a huge security lockdown. MailOnline reported that Harris “triggered a huge security headache”, though it is unclear if the former Vice President of the US is set to present an Academy Award.
People located close to ‘s Dolby Theatre – where the event is held – said security is at an “all-time high”, with vehicles waiting to cross the security cordon forced to allow sniffer dogs inside. Black minibuses filled with private security teemed into the compound, with one federal official telling Deadline: “We live in a new evolving security environment.
“The expected attendance of the former vice president is a major factor in the added security.” The source added that there are no “credible threats” to the event and the security in force was a “precautionary” measure.
According to one Academy source who spoke to Deadline, it is, however, “not true” that Harris will attend the event at all.
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The Oscars had a controversial guest (Image: Getty)
“Last minute” security measures have been introduced for red carpet reporters and crew members, all of whom have to wear green lanyards. Media required photographic badges to get accreditation for the event, and were reportedly “pre-screened” by police in advance of the event.
One industry source told the publication: “That’s dinosaur stuff. AI knows where you are nowadays. They’re probably ten years behind the technology in the world today.”
In addition, Boulevard has been gated off on both sides, with bomb squads already located on the site as a precautionary measure. Streets going off the Blvd have also been closed off with police at the scene. Deadline reports that most of the measures are “usual”, but “still at a heightened level”.
World Protection Group CEO Kent Moyer said: “They’re moving out the outer ring of protection. Basically, law enforcement wants to show force, and act as a deterrent: You can’t get near the place because it’s fortified. The whole profile looks better.”
Kamala Harris could attend the event (Image: Getty)
Among the movies nominated for Best Picture at tonight’s awards are The Brutalist, Conclave, The Substance and Wicked. Anora is currently odds-on to scoop the coveted gong, followed closely by Conclave and The Brutalist. Dune: Part Two is currently at the longest odds of taking the main trophy.
Demi Moore is up for an award for her role in The Substance – though her co-star Margaret Qualley was snubbed this time around. Emilia Perez hopes to revive its success at the Oscars after scooping four Golden Globes.