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Mariah Carey and the Oscars History: A Timeline
As the 2025 Academy Awards approach this March, it’s a fitting time to reflect on the connection between music icon Mariah Carey and the Oscars. While Carey is primarily known for her record-breaking music career, she has made multiple appearances at the Academy Awards, whether as a performer, an attendee, or a “nominee”. Each moment was marked by unforgettable performances, stunning designer gowns, and even a memorable joke from Whoopi Goldberg. Let’s take a deep dive into Mariah Carey’s history with the Oscars.
1999: A Monumental Performance with Whitney Houston
One of the most iconic musical moments in Oscar history took place on March 21, 1999, at the 71st Academy Awards. Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, two of the most celebrated vocalists of all time, took the stage together to perform their duet “When You Believe“ from The Prince of Egypt (1998). The song, composed by Stephen Schwartz and produced by Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds, won the Academy Award for Best Original Song that night. Their performance was a historic moment that showcased their unmatched vocal power.
Fashion Choice:
For this monumental night, Mariah Carey opted for a stunning white gown by Vera Wang that featured a fitted bodice and delicate beading. The look was a perfect complement to Whitney Houston’s equally ethereal white ensemble, symbolizing unity and elegance. Both stars were also accompanied by a full gospel choir, elevating the spiritual and inspirational nature of their performance.
Behind the Scenes:
The rehearsals leading up to the performance weren’t without challenges. Houston missed one of the initial rehearsals due to illness, leading to a stand-in taking her place. However, on the night of the performance, both legends delivered a flawless rendition that left the audience in awe.
2001: Whoopi Goldberg’s Joke about Mariah’s ‘Glitter’
During the 73rd Academy Awards in 2001, hosted by the legendary Whoopi Goldberg, Mariah Carey became the subject of a humorous remark. At the time, Carey was in Toronto filming her semi-autobiographical film Glitter, which would go on to have a tumultuous release later that year.
The Joke:
Whoopi Goldberg joked, “The nation has suffered a great tragedy but we’ve recovered… Mariah Carey has already made another movie.” The audience chuckled at the remark, though in retrospect, Glitter would become a major challenge for Carey, coinciding with a difficult period in her career.
While Mariah Carey did not attend the Oscars that year and kicking a dog while it’s done may seem of poor taste, her name being mentioned at the prestigious event solidified her undeniable influence, even outside of music. If you’re big enough to become a universal joke, you’re an icon.
2010: A Red Carpet Return for Precious
By 2010, Carey had transitioned into more serious acting, most notably playing Ms. Weiss, a compassionate social worker, in Lee Daniels’ Oscar-winning film Precious (2009). The film was a major success at the 82nd Academy Awards, winning Best Supporting Actress (Mo’Nique) and Best Adapted Screenplay.
Fashion Choice:
For this occasion, Carey stunned on the red carpet in a navy blue Valentino gown with a thigh-high slit, accessorized with diamonds and a sleek hairstyle. She was accompanied by her then-husband, Nick Cannon, who sported a classic tuxedo.
The Moment:
Though Carey was not personally nominated, her role in Precious was widely praised, marking a shift in her public perception as an artist capable of serious, dramatic acting.
2018: Mariah Carey Nominated for The Star
Mariah Carey’s legacy as a songwriter reached the Golden Globes in 2018, when her song “The Star” from the animated film of the same name was submitted for Best Original Song consideration. Though it did not receive an official nomination, its inclusion on the Golden Globes shortlist marked another milestone in her career.
Fashion Choice:
Black gowns were the theme that year as a show of solidarity against sexual harassment and assult in Hollywood. The coordinated choice was part of the Time’s Up initiative, which emerged in response to the #MeToo movement and the broader reckoning with gender inequality in the industry.
Therefore, for the Golden Globes events that year, Carey dazzled in a black Dolce & Gabbana gown with intricate lace detailing, pairing the look with her signature long waves and dazzling diamond earrings.
Significance:
This moment was significant as it reinforced Carey’s prowess as a songwriter, a title she has long championed. The fact that “The Star” was considered for the Golden Globes further validated her place in both the music and film worlds.
Mariah Carey’s Enduring Influence on the Oscars
As the Oscars return in 2025, fans may wonder if Carey will once again make an appearance. However, as of now, she is not due to attend the ceremony. We know she’s not oblivious to this year’s nominations as she publicly congratulated Fernanda Torres for her Best Actress nomination in I’m Still Here.
Over the years, Carey has contributed her powerhouse vocals to various film soundtracks, including “Loverboy” for Glitter (2001), “Almost Home” for Oz the Great and Powerful (2013), and “Right to Dream” for Tennessee (2008). While “100%” was initially recorded as a promotional single for Precious (2009), it was later reassigned to the AT&T Team USA Soundtrack for the 2010 Winter Olympics. These tracks further showcase her ability to merge music with cinematic storytelling, solidifying her impact on film soundtracks.
Mariah Carey’s relationship with the Oscars may not be defined by wins, but her presence, performances, and contributions to film music have left a lasting mark on the industry. From breathtaking duets to glamourous red carpet moments, she continues to be a symbol of elegance and talent. Whether she returns to the Academy Awards in the future remains to be seen, but her legacy as a music and entertainment icon is firmly established in Oscar history.
