NEW YORK (WABC) -- Although the bio-pic "Selma" earned nominations for Best Picture and Best Song, David Oyelowo, who plays Martin Luther King, Jr., did not earn a nomination for Best Actor. Now, the 38-year-old star is speaking out about a lack of recognition for black actors.
A lack of diversity is seen by some as a big problem in Hollywood. This year, all 20 lead and supporting actor nominees are white.
Oyelowo feels that black actors aren't recognized enough for playing strong characters.
"Generally speaking, we as black people, have been celebrated more for when we are subservient, when we are not being leaders or kings or being at the center of our own narrative driving in forward," he said.
Rapper Common, who was nominated along with John Legend for Best Song, also commented on the issue.
"I'm disappointed," he said.
Others share his sentiment.
"It's something you can't kind of understand," actress Jennifer Aniston said.
It's only the second time it's happened in the last 20 years, and the academy has pledged to improve diversity.
Publications have also addressed the topic. According to the Hollywood Reporter, "The entire brouhaha over Selma has opened a lot of eyes."
It's opened eyes and increased calls for change within the academy, which gives out the Oscars, and in the film industry as a whole. This year's awards will be given out live on Channel 7 on February 21.