A tense moment at the 2026 Academy Awards has prompted both the Academy and its contracted security firm to issue statements after Teyana Taylor accused a guard of shoving her. The Oscar-nominated star of One Battle After Another was seen in viral footage confronting the staffer, saying, “He literally shoved me” and calling him “very rude.”
Security Firm’s Statement
Security Industry Specialists (SIS), the company hired to manage the event, acknowledged the incident but downplayed the severity. “There was incidental contact,” the firm said in a statement to Variety, adding that the guard’s conduct “did not meet the company’s standard of professionalism.” SIS confirmed the matter has been addressed internally to prevent similar situations.
Academy’s Response
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences also condemned the guard’s behavior. “We were extremely upset to learn about the experience endured by Teyana Taylor,” the Academy said in a statement to Deadline. “Though the incident was with our outside security firm, the experience of every single guest is our responsibility. We have made it clear that this behavior is not acceptable.”
Taylor Speaks Out
Later that night, Taylor told TMZ that security was “just doing a lot” and added, “I don’t tolerate disrespect, especially when it’s unwarranted and unprovoked.” She was celebrating her film’s Best Picture win when the confrontation occurred, reportedly after the guard tried to block her from rejoining her cast for a victory photo.
Moving Forward
While the Academy praised Taylor for showing “remarkable grace,” the incident highlights ongoing concerns about guest treatment at high-profile events. Both the Academy and SIS have pledged to take corrective measures to ensure similar confrontations do not happen again.
