Oscars Producer Breaks Down Al Pacino’s Best Picture Reveal

“There seems to be some controversy about my not mentioning every film by name last night before announcing the best picture award,” the actor said in a statement reported by Variety. “I just want to be clear it was not my intention to omit them, rather a choice by the producers not to have them said again since they were highlighted individually throughout the ceremony.”

He continued by saying he felt “honored to be a part of the evening,” and “chose to follow the way they wished for this award to be presented.”

“I realize being nominated is a huge milestone in one’s life and to not be fully recognized is offensive and hurtful,” he added. “I say this as someone who profoundly relates with filmmakers, actors and producers so I deeply empathize with those who have been slighted by this oversight and it’s why I felt it necessary to make this statement.”