Spirit Awards moves up date to eve of Academy Awards

The annual Spirit Awards ceremony, which honors the best in independent films, will shift away from its traditional date one day prior to the Academy Awards next year, organizers announced Thursday.

According to Film Independent, which presents the awards, the 2022 event will be held March 6, three weeks prior to the Oscars. The move is aimed at giving Spirit Award nominees and winners more visibility and influence during Oscar voting.

“The Spirit Awards have always championed diverse, unique, independent storytelling. Shifting earlier in the awards season will allow us to shine an even brighter light on the films and shows we are excited to celebrate,” according to Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent.

The awards have traditionally been presented in a midday luncheon, held in a large tent on the beach in Santa Monica. Next year’s 37th annual ceremony, however, will be held at 5 p.m. There was no immediate word on location.

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