Janelle Monáe calls out snubs in Oscars 2020 opening number

Janelle Monáe used her Oscars opening act to call out the films that weren’t nominated this year.

In an original number that featured dancers, costumes and Billy Porter, the singer and actress took the stage at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood and called out the works by creators that were notably ignored by the academy.

“The Oscars, it’s so white, it’s time to come alive,” the 34-year-old sang in the number to open the ceremony, which has no host this year.

She started off singing a version of “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” from “It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” while donning a red sweater like the film’s subject, Mr. Rogers. Monáe then traded it for many costumes, including a flower crown and dress from “Midsommar,” a horror flick starring Florence Pugh that received no nominations. Pugh, 24, is nominated for her role in “Little Women.”

“From ‘Dolemite’ to ‘Parasite,’ it’s time to shine,” Monáe sang, noting Eddie Murphy’s comeback film “Dolemite Is My Name.” Many considered the lack of nominations for his work, which included a majority of actors of color, as a snub from the academy.

Jordan Peele’s “Us” and Lorene Scafaria’s “Hustlers” were also mentioned by Monáe.