The wildfires tearing through Los Angeles have forced major changes in the entertainment world, including a shake-up to the Oscars timeline. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences just made a big announcement: voting for Oscar nominations has been extended. The new deadline is January 14. The nominee reveal is now set for January 19, shifting from the original January 12.
Why the delay? The devastating wildfires in Southern California have affected many people in the entertainment industry. The Academy wants to give its members more time. They want to accommodate those impacted by the crisis.
Academy CEO shares condolences
In a statement, Academy CEO Bill Kramer offered heartfelt condolences. “We want to offer our deepest sympathies to those affected by the devastating fires across Southern California,” he said. “Many of our members and industry colleagues live and work in the Los Angeles area, and we are thinking of you.”
Wildfires wreak havoc on Los Angeles
The wildfires, the worst in Los Angeles County’s history, have caused widespread devastation. At least five people have died, and many others are injured. Over 1,000 structures have been destroyed. The Palisades Fire, near Malibu and Santa Monica, continues to pose a huge threat. Local residents and emergency crews are battling the flames, trying to protect lives and property.
Industry events disrupted
This crisis also affects the entertainment calendar. Several key events disrupt the schedule. The International Feature Shortlist Screening, scheduled for Wednesday, postpones. The Sound Branch and Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch Bake-Offs, originally planned for January 11, cancel. The Visual Effects Branch Bake-Offs, set to happen in Los Angeles, New York, and the Bay Area, call off.
Oscars still set for March 2
Despite these setbacks, the 2025 Oscars are going to happen on March 2. Comedian Conan O’Brien has already been confirmed as the host. However, the wildfires are a reminder of the challenges the industry faces. The crisis highlights the unpredictability of events, even something as major as the Oscars.
Academy’s support during crisis
The wildfires have brought chaos and loss to many, but the Academy is doing what it can to support its members. With the Oscars still on track for March, there’s hope that the show will go on, despite the challenges.
The situation in Los Angeles is dire, but the entertainment industry is proving its resilience. Even in the face of adversity, the Oscars are pushing forward. With the extended voting period and the rescheduled events, the show must—and will—go on.
