In one of the most bizarre moments at this year’s Academy Awards, WWE star John Cena made a surprise naked appearance onstage alongside host Jimmy Kimmel. The awkward bit came as Kimmel sought to salvage the sagging Oscars telecast and pop a lackluster show.
Referencing the infamous 1974 Oscars streaker, Kimmel wondered aloud whether a nude guest rushing the stage would still shock modern audiences. He called out to Cena backstage to “do the thing,” but Cena initially refused, claiming he didn’t “feel right” about the idea and that the Oscars represented “an elegant event.”
What you didn't see on TV: John Cena's quick change. pic.twitter.com/h9tXdZXd1g
— Vulture (@vulture) March 11, 2024
Nonetheless, Cena eventually emerged nude with only a cue card covering his crotch as he presented the Best Costume Design award. “Costumes, they are so important — maybe the most important thing there is,” quipped the visibly uncomfortable 46-year-old actor.
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The stunt came on the heels of Kimmel making several ill-advised jokes targeting Downey Jr.’s past substance abuse issues and crudely speculating about the “Iron Man” star’s penis size. Downey Jr. was nominated for Best Supporting Actor for his role in “Oppenheimer” but did not look amused during Kimmel’s monologue.
It was not the first time Kimmel sparked controversy while hosting Hollywood’s biggest night. At the 2017 ceremony, he made unnecessary jokes about Asian accents that many deemed racist and offensive.
While Cena’s nude Oscars appearance certainly qualifies as unexpected and bizarre, it fits with the scattershot, hit-or-miss tone that has plagued Kimmel’s stints as host. This year’s ceremony will likely be remembered chiefly for its offbeat moments rather than celebrating cinema’s pinnacle achievements.
