
It’s been over a decade since the infamous 2014 Oscars selfie took the internet by storm.
The now-iconic photo, featuring some of Hollywood’s biggest stars, was once celebrated as a symbol of the industry’s glamour. But in recent years, fans have been revisiting the image with a different perspective—some even calling it “cursed.”
According to the New York Post, critics have gone so far as to dub it a “hellfie.” But why?
To understand, you have to take a closer look at the people in the frame.
For those who may not remember, the moment took place during the live broadcast of the 2014 Academy Awards. Host Ellen DeGeneres, known for her playful antics, grabbed her smartphone and ran into the audience. Soon, a cluster of Hollywood A-listers gathered around her, with The Hangover star Bradley Cooper holding the phone to snap the picture.

The selfie featured an all-star lineup: Jared Leto, Jennifer Lawrence, Channing Tatum, Julia Roberts, Kevin Spacey, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Lupita Nyong’o (alongside her brother Peter), and the legendary Meryl Streep. At the time, it was seen as a fun, spontaneous moment. But in hindsight, many now view it as a snapshot of Hollywood’s changing landscape.
Let’s start with Ellen DeGeneres. Once a beloved talk show host, she faced serious allegations in 2022 when former employees accused her of fostering a “toxic” work environment. Reports claimed that her show was plagued by racism, fear, and intimidation, with executives allegedly engaging in sexual harassment and discriminatory behavior. The scandal severely damaged her reputation.