Killer Kross, real name Kevin Robert Kesar, announced on Monday that his short film, “Blue Evening,” is officially qualified for consideration at the 98th Academy Awards.
Kross, who wrestled in WWE as Karrion Kross, has been active on the independent circuit since his WWE contract expired in August 2025. He serves as an executive producer and has an acting role in “Blue Evening,” which is a drama written and directed by Jett Jansen Fernandez and starring Gustavo J. Ramirez, Sari Sanchez, and Sammy Horowitz.
The film’s plot follows a homeless addict in Los Angeles who stumbles upon a lost masterpiece in a thrift store, setting him on a desperate journey of redemption and survival. The film has been making the rounds at various film festivals, gathering nominations and positive responses.
In a post on X, Kross celebrated the major news. “BLUE EVENING is Oscars Qualified!” he wrote. “We are officially in consideration for the 98th Academy Awards in the Live Action Short Film category. Thank you to the entire cast & crew of the film- and everyone who continues to see the film as it screens during the film festivals!”
Kross On The Film’s Journey
Kross reflected on the project’s humble beginnings and its connection with audiences. “What started as a small story between friends has taken on a life of its own; connecting with audiences, filmmakers, and festivals all over the world,” he shared.
He continued, “The response to Blue Evening has been amazing from both fans and fellow filmmakers alike, and we’re deeply thankful to everyone who has supported us, from our talented cast and crew to every festival that believed in the film, screened it and nominated it.”
Kross concluded his announcement with a direct appeal to Academy members. “To be considered at this level is a tremendous honor. No matter what happens next, the journey of Blue Evening has already been something truly special. If you’re a member of the Academy, we’d be honored if you considered Blue Evening in the Live Action Short Film category.”
BLUE EVENING is Oscars Qualified! 🎉
We are officially in consideration for the 98th Academy Awards in the Live Action Short Film category.
Thank you to the entire cast & crew of the film- and everyone who continues to see the film as it screens during the film festivals!… pic.twitter.com/4EMR8SrcqT
— Kevin Robert Kesar (@realKILLERkross) November 3, 2025
