Former U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris is set to attend the 97th Academy Awards, leading to an unprecedented security operation around Hollywood’s Dolby Theatre.
Law enforcement agencies, including the LAPD, federal officials, and private security teams, have ramped up safety measures. A heavily guarded perimeter has been established, streets are closed off, bomb squads are on standby, and drones are monitoring the area. Hollywood Boulevard is secured from Cahuenga to La Brea, restricting public access to Highland Avenue.
Though it is uncertain whether Harris will take the stage to present an award, her presence has significantly influenced the tightened security. A federal source told Deadline that while her attendance is a primary factor, there are currently no credible threats.
Attendees, including the press, are subject to more stringent credential checks, with additional pre-screening measures and the introduction of a green lanyard requirement for reporters. Some insiders have criticized the system, suggesting that AI-driven security technology would be a more effective alternative.
Harris has been actively engaging in the entertainment industry this awards season. She recently attended the NAACP Image Awards, where she warned about growing threats to democracy. She was also spotted at a private Oscar party hosted by CAA head Bryan Lourd on March 1, fueling speculation about her future endeavors beyond politics.
With the evolving political landscape, it remains unclear whether Harris and her husband, Doug Emhoff, will ultimately enter the Dolby Theatre. However, her expected appearance has already sparked discussions in both Hollywood and Washington.
