‘Straight Outta Compton’ Cast Takes a Dig at the Oscars at MTV Movie Awards

Almost all of the awards season conversation earlier this year was dominated by the #OscarsSoWhite controversy, part of which was ignited by the lack of nominations for the critically acclaimed N.W.A music drama “Straight Outta Compton.” The blockbuster hit was widely praised for its performances (it received a SAG nomination for Best Ensemble) and seemed to be gaining momentum for a Best Picture nomination, but it was ultimately shut out in nearly every category, only earning a writing nomination.

READ MORE: MTV Movie Awards 2016: Complete Winners List

Over a month after being ignored from the Oscars telecast, “Straight Outta Compton” got something of a redemption moment at the 2016 MTV Movie Award, where the film won the first-ever prize for True Story, a category dedicated to honoring a film based on true events. The cast took to the stage alongside original N.W.A. member DJ Yella, and cast member Jason Mitchell threw some serious shade at the start of his acceptance speech

“I would just like to take a moment to, like, thank the Academy,” the actor joked as his cast members led the crowd in a rousing applause. I mean, MTV. I’m sorry. I’m sorry. My bad!” 

Mitchell was clearly putting the Oscars on blast for their lack of “Straight Outta Compton” recognition, and in a way he was speaking to the greater triumph of the MTV Movie Awards. The ceremony may not have any hold on the actual awards season, but they clearly spotlight diversity in a way telecasts like the Oscars continually fail to do.

For more on the 2016 MTV Movie Awards, click here for a complete list of winners.