MTV are going gender neutral for revamped Movie and TV Awards

Apr 7, 2017

MTV’s annual Movie and TV Awards are undergoing a major revamp.

The ceremony will debut its new format on May 7, with a host of new categories and rule changes.

One of the biggest changes sees the introduction of ‘non-gendered’ awards.

This year, the traditional separation of the male and female categories has been dropped by the network and Hollywood's leading lads and lassies will instead compete in the same category, regardless of gender.

So, for the first time ever, Emma Watson will take on Hugh Jackman and James McAvoy in Best Actor in a movie while The Walking Dead’s Jeffrey Dean Morgan will go head to head with Millie Bobby Brown and Emilia Clarke for best actor in a series.

The move is a huge step forward for gender equality in the industry, and many are hoping other award ceremonies will follow suit.

'MTV Movie/TV awards go gender neutral' Theres no reason for these awards to be gendered,others should do the same https://t.co/5AlSHwL1TY

— sheyma buali (@sheymab) April 7, 2017

This is such a good, progressive step towards equality MTV Movie and TV awards go gender neutral – BBC News https://t.co/NA9Ji7I9PR

— Michael (@isthatmichael) April 7, 2017

I really like this idea, nice to see @MTV and @OfficialNTAs going gender neutral for awards! https://t.co/eGHLyyOree

— George Cole (@RSU_VPWelfare) April 7, 2017

This year also marks the first time in the ceremony’s history that series on streaming services and television networks can receive nominations.

Leading the nominations is Get Out, directed by Jordan Peele. The horror will compete in for the top prize of Movie of the Year and the film's leading man, Daniel Kaluuya, also received a nod for Best Actor in a movie.