The accounting firm that the Oscars uses to tabulate votes and ensure the integrity of the process is PwC.
The Accounting Firm Behind the Oscars
For decades, the Academy Awards, commonly known as the Oscars, has entrusted the crucial task of vote tabulation to an independent accounting firm. This role is pivotal in maintaining the integrity and secrecy of the voting process for one of the most prestigious awards in the entertainment industry.
Why an Accounting Firm? A Legacy of Trust
The decision to involve an external accounting firm dates back to 1935. This initiative was sparked by claims of voting irregularities, particularly after concerns arose when actress Bette Davis was reportedly passed over for a nomination. To counteract such claims and ensure complete fairness and transparency, the Academy brought in a reputable firm to meticulously count the votes.
At that time, the firm now known as PwC was operating under its previous name, Price Waterhouse. They were enlisted to provide an impartial and accurate tabulation of the ballots cast by Academy members, a practice that has continued ever since.
PwC's Role in the Oscar Process
PwC's involvement goes beyond just counting votes; they are integral to the entire awards process. Their responsibilities typically include:
- Ballot Management: Overseeing the distribution and collection of ballots from thousands of Academy members worldwide.
- Vote Tabulation: Accurately counting every vote for each category, ensuring that the winners are determined based on the precise preferences of the voters.
- Secrecy and Security: Maintaining absolute secrecy of the results until the moment the envelopes are opened live on stage. This involves stringent security protocols, including preparing duplicate sets of winner envelopes.
- Auditing: Providing a verifiable audit trail for the voting process, ensuring compliance with all Academy rules and regulations.
This long-standing partnership with PwC underscores the Academy's commitment to fairness and transparency, reinforcing public trust in the integrity of the Oscar awards.
