OSCARS 2024
Why did John Cena present at the 2024 Oscars naked?
The legendary wrestler paid tribute to the 50th anniversary of a streaker at the ceremony.
John Cena needed no more than two minutes on the Dolby Theatre stage to create one of the this evening’s Oscars’ most memorable moments. The wrestler walked slowly, taking small steps towards the microphone; his face was shy, his expression somber. The twist: he was naked, with only the envelope, which held the name of the Oscar winner for Best Costume Design, covering his groin.
That was the key. The 16-time WWE champion and iconic face of professional wrestling flexed his muscles and, scanning the audience, he pondered aloud how he was going to announce the winning movie without revealing everything by moving the envelope. Cinema’s great and good were loving.
Cena recalls Oscar streaker
In truth, there was a dual purpose. Cena, completely naked and covering his genitals with the envelope, was enacting a skit to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Robert Opel’s naked protest at the 1974 gala. He ran naked past presenter David Niven, who was introducing Elizabeth Taylor.
Cena was celebrating a moment of Oscar history and also cleverly and humorously highlighting the importance of clothing.
Best Costume Design went to Poor Creatures.