Los Angeles: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the cancellation of its annual nominees’ luncheon due to the ongoing wildfires ravaging Los Angeles. The event, which traditionally celebrates those nominated for the prestigious Oscar awards, was set to take place amidst a period of devastation in the city. In response to the situation, the Academy has opted to hold the nomination announcement online on January 23, 2025.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang issued a joint statement expressing their grief over the impact of the fires, stating, “We are all devastated by the impact of the fires and the profound losses experienced by so many in our community.” They also emphasised the Academy’s role as a unifying force in the film industry and vowed to stand in solidarity with those affected by the disaster.
Los Angeles, the second-largest city in the United States, has been severely impacted by the wildfires, with at least 24 people confirmed dead and thousands of homes and structures destroyed. Over 92,000 residents remain displaced as the fires rage on, causing widespread destruction across the region. Many in Hollywood have been directly affected, including well-known stars such as Anthony Hopkins, Mel Gibson and Billy Crystal, who lost their homes to the flames.
In light of the crisis, numerous Hollywood studios and streaming platforms have pledged substantial financial aid to support emergency response and rebuilding efforts. Warner Bros Discovery and Disney have each committed USD15 million, while Netflix, Amazon and Comcast have each promised USD 10 million in donations.
As Hollywood navigates the ongoing challenges, the industry faces the question of how to continue the award season in a way that acknowledges the pain and suffering in the local community. Some individuals, such as Jean Smart, star of the TV series Hacks, have suggested scrapping the award season entirely and donating the revenue to fire relief efforts.
However, the Academy has decided to proceed with its traditional Academy Awards Gala on March 2, acknowledging the importance of coming together as an industry. The gala will also honour first responders and those who have supported firefighting efforts during this crisis. The Academy expressed its determination to celebrate the resilience and compassion of the film industry despite the tragic circumstances.
In contrast to the Oscars, the Grammy Awards will also proceed as scheduled. Organisers have confirmed that the event will take place at the Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles with plans to raise funds for wildfire relief and pay tribute to the first responders involved in the crisis.
Meanwhile, the ‘Sundance Film Festival’, which kicks off next week in Utah, will continue as planned. Festival organisers issued a statement saying, “Right now, we may mourn, but we also know it is important to carry on,” underscoring the festival’s commitment to its regular programming despite the ongoing crisis.
As Los Angeles battles the wildfires, the entertainment industry continues to grapple with the challenge of balancing celebration with sensitivity to the losses experienced by many. The Academy’s decision to move forward with the award season, while acknowledging the difficult circumstances, reflects the industry’s determination to unite and support those affected.
