Dustin Snipes / Sharp ShotYou people have so many questions about Sunday's Oscars. They've created an avalanche in my in-box, so let's dig out, shall we? Mostly, you're pestering me about Brad Renfro and Miley Cyrus, but I'll do you better. I'll nail all your answers here in a special Academy Awards Lightning Round from E! Online's Answer B!tch.
Why are certain nonmovie stars, like Sean Combs and Miley Cyrus, invited to attend or present at the Oscars? Shouldn't this prestigious event be just for those nominated and industry heavyweights?
—Julie, New York
Cyrus recently released a film version of her concert, and that technically makes her a movie star. ("Other than that," an Academy spokeswoman says, "I don't know what to tell you.") She also attracts a young audience, something the Oscar producers probably wanted. (Not that the strategy worked. The Oscars were a ratings nightmare.) Hence Cyrus' position as presenter. As for Combs, I suspect that the diamond-seeking sensor array implanted in his brain drew him to the corner of Hollywood and Highland, and the security people stood aside to prevent any gem-related violence.
Who was that cute little girl sitting next to Viggo Mortensen at the Oscars?
—Ruth, Miami
That is his niece Sydney.
Why was Brad Renfro not mentioned in the annual montage tribute to those who have passed during the 80th Academy Awards broadcast?
—Juice, Fresno, California
I quizzed a spokeswoman about this, and here's what she said...
She insisted that the decision was strictly about time limitations. Not even a mere three seconds of space was available for Renfro, it seems. "Unfortunately, there isn't enough room to include everyone," the spokeswoman said. "Especially because we need to accommodate all branches of the Academy." Okay...
How do the stars manage to look flawless on the red carpet? Their gowns are wrinkle free, not a single strand of hair out of place, makeup not smudged. Do they have people check them before they walk the red carpet?
—Mimi, Philadelphia
Yes, several people line up to make it happen. (1) The stylist is in charge of the gown—including the steaming or ironing thereof—shoes, handbag and jewelry. (2) A makeup artist checks the star's face before the red carpet debut, and (3) a separate member of the glam squad is strictly in charge of shellacking the hair. (4) Even hotel concierges are often pressed into service on the big day. The Four Seasons staff claims to have retied quite a few bow ties for guest nominees, for example.
Why do celebs like Heidi Klum, who have nothing to do with movies, go to the Oscars?
—Jen, Seattle, Washington
She was invited to be the face of a copromotion between Revlon and the Academy to benefit a women's heart health charity. That good enough for you?
How did Gary Busey manage to get into the Oscars and harass Seacrest?
—Sarah, Oneida, New York
The Oscars people inform me that Busey is one of the Academy's 6,000 members. Because the Kodak Theatre seats only about 3,300, the Academy holds a lottery every year for its members, and the winners get tickets to the ceremony. Busey was one such winner this year, I am told, leaving Seacrest a cruel victim of Lady Fate.
—Filed by Leslie Gornstein