Bruce Vilanch, a renowned ghostwriter for major award shows, shares his candid insights into the challenges and triumphs of crafting comedy for high-profile events. With over three decades of experience, Vilanch reflects on memorable moments, difficult collaborations, and the delicate balance between insider humor and broad appeal. His new book, "It Seemed Like a Bad Idea at the Time," offers a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of television's biggest nights.

Navigating the Oscars' Dual Audience

The Academy Awards present a unique challenge for writers like Vilanch. Balancing the expectations of Hollywood insiders with those of the general public requires a nuanced approach. Vilanch explains that while industry professionals are familiar with the nuances of film and entertainment, the average viewer may not recognize all references. To bridge this gap, he emphasizes the importance of creating an atmosphere that resonates with both groups. By focusing on jokes that work for the live audience, the energy translates to viewers at home, ensuring a more engaging experience for everyone.

Vilanch elaborates on the intricacies of writing for such a diverse audience. He likens the process to using a shrimp fork—delicate yet effective. The key is to make enough references that the in-house crowd appreciates, while also including universally relatable content. This calibration ensures that even if some jokes go over the heads of the home audience, the overall spirit of the show remains enjoyable. Vilanch underscores the need to frontload the show with strong material, as the evening tends to lose momentum as it progresses. As the night wears on, the room fills with disappointed nominees, making it harder to keep the audience engaged. Therefore, delivering the best content early on is crucial for maintaining the show's energy.

Challenges and Triumphs in Hosting the Oscars

Selecting the right host for the Oscars is no easy task. Vilanch highlights the importance of choosing someone who can command respect and deliver humor effectively. A great host must be a big star, capable of making fun of celebrities while maintaining their own status. Jo Koy's performance at the Golden Globes exemplifies this balance, proving that a well-calibrated act can captivate both the audience and the stars. Vilanch also discusses the pitfalls of poorly chosen hosts, noting that certain pairings, like James Franco and Anne Hathaway, were ill-fitted for the role. The lack of chemistry and clear direction made for a challenging and less enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

Reflecting on past hosts, Vilanch recalls working with Ellen DeGeneres, whose demeanor during the show was markedly different from her usual persona. Despite her popularity, DeGeneres appeared guarded and risk-averse, which affected the collaborative environment. Vilanch attributes this change to the immense pressure she faced, isolating herself from the creative team. While the show itself remained successful, the experience was less enjoyable for the writers. Additionally, Vilanch touches on the political climate surrounding the Oscars, particularly during the Trump era. He notes that while the Academy has become more international and less centered on Hollywood, political moments remain a double-edged sword. Vilanch appreciates the spontaneity they bring but acknowledges the potential backlash. One of his most regrettable moments was having to cut a joke about Richard Gere, fearing the actor's reaction. Billy Crystal's decision to omit the joke showcases the importance of fairness and respect in crafting comedy for such significant events.