Almost every year the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences selects an individual or two upon whom they believe worthy of receiving an honorary Oscar. These people tend to be persons who have contributed greatly to the overall enjoyment of movies, but who have either never been eligible to be nominated in a competitive category (such as film historian Kevin Brownlow), or who have some how or other been overlooked by the Academy regardless of talent (Groucho Marx).
Hard to believe it, but some of the biggest names in film history never received a competitive Oscar (Cary Grant, Alfred Hitchcock, Greta Garbo), and some were never even nominated (Myrna Loy, Douglas Fairbanks, Bob Hope), but the Academy eventually recognized the oversights and bestowed awards upon these deserving individuals. The Academy does its best to right these sometimes egregious errors (Peter O’Toole, nominated 8 times with no wins), but with so many wonderful talents to consider, both on and off the screen (Ennio Morricone, Chuck Jones), some intended recipients unfortunately pass away before Oscar has had a chance to rectify the situation (Glenn Ford).
It’s not surprising then that campaigns have emerged over the years headed by devoted fans on behalf of a beloved star. Such is the case with Doris Day and two (2) unrelated pages on Facebook (here are links to page 1, and page 2). Heck, if it can work to get Betty White a hosting gig on SNL, why not an Oscar for Doris Day? The all-American cinematic icon of female wholesomeness justly deserves to be recognized by the golden boy. Day’s over whelming popularity throughout the longevity of her career and her devotion to animal rights certainly equate to the “entertainment contributions” of Maurice Chevalier or Danny Kaye’s “service to the American people” (both men were past honorees for the quoted reasons).
Not that I want to try and compare one person’s qualifications to another, but if you agree with the idea that Doris Day should be honored with the highest award her peers have to offer then I ask you to take a few moments of your time and click on the previously mentioned links. Even if the Academy chooses not to acknowledge Day with a significant gesture, you can make the gesture of giving a little acknowledgement of your own. If you’re a fan of the lady it’s the least you can do.