Academy Taps Sean Baker, Samantha Quan

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced Sean Baker and Samantha Quan as co-chairs of its new Marquee Theater Committee. The committee reviews submissions and recommends theaters for inclusion on the Academy Marquee Theater List.

Sean Baker, a recent Oscar winner, and Samantha Quan, a producer, will spearhead the new effort. Baker won four Academy Awards in 2025 for his film 'Anora'. The Academy Marquee Theater Committee is part of the Academy's 2026-2027 committees and affinity groups.

All chairs and vice chairs of the Academy's committees and affinity groups serve one-year terms. Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor and Academy CEO Bill Kramer made a statement about the chairs and vice chairs, expressing gratitude for their leadership and engagement.

The Academy's committees and affinity groups are meant to bring together members to advance key initiatives, inform Academy policy and programs, and serve the interests of its membership. Other committees include the International Feature Film Executive Committee, co-chaired by Michèle Ohayon and James Wilson, and the Short Films Qualifying Festivals Selection Committee, chaired by Summer Joy Main-Muñoz.

## Why it matters The Academy Marquee Theater Committee's work will help advance the Academy's mission and ensure it is well-positioned for the future. The committee's recommendations will contribute to the development of the Academy Marquee Theater List, which will have an impact on the film industry.

The Academy's announcement is part of a summer of big announcements, demonstrating the organization's ongoing efforts to advance its mission and serve its membership. With the new Marquee Theater Committee in place, the Academy is taking steps to promote and support the film industry, and the work of its members.