The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has delayed its Oscar nominations announcement by 48 hours due to the deadly wildfires devastating Los Angeles. Originally scheduled for January 17, the announcement will now take place on January 19, the BBC reports.
The Academy has also extended the voting period for its nearly 10,000 members. Initially set to close on January 12, voting will now remain open until January 14 to accommodate members affected by the fires.
The fires, including the “Sunset Fire” in the Hollywood Hills, have displaced over 100,000 residents. Among those who lost their homes are celebrities such as Billy Crystal, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Paris Hilton, and Miles Teller. Julia Louis-Dreyfus’s home was reported to be completely destroyed.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer addressed the situation in a letter to members, expressing condolences and solidarity with those affected. “So many of our members and industry colleagues live and work in the Los Angeles area, and we are thinking of you,” Kramer wrote.
The Sunset Fire has prompted evacuations of iconic Hollywood landmarks, including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the TLC Chinese Theatre, Dolby Theater, Capitol Records Building, Magic Castle, and the Hollywood Bowl. These venues, essential to Los Angeles’ cultural and entertainment identity, remain at risk as the fire continues to spread.
Despite the ongoing crisis, the Academy confirmed that the 2025 Oscars ceremony will proceed as planned at the Dolby Theater on March 2, with Conan O’Brien set to host.
As the fires continue to wreak havoc in Southern California, the entertainment industry, like much of the region, faces significant challenges. Recovery efforts and containment remain priorities as officials and residents navigate the devastating impact of the wildfires.
