In the wake of the devastating wildfires that have swept through Los Angeles, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has made a significant adjustment to the timeline for the upcoming 97th Oscars. Originally, the voting window for the nearly 10,000 Academy members was set to close on January 12, 2025. However, in light of the ongoing crisis, the deadline has been extended to January 14, 2025. This change reflects the Academy’s sensitivity to the challenges faced by its members and the broader community affected by the fires.
The Oscars ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 2, 2025, and the nominations announcement, which was initially slated for January 17, has now been postponed to January 19. This decision was communicated to Academy members via an email from CEO Bill Kramer, who expressed heartfelt condolences to those impacted by the wildfires. The email emphasized the Academy’s solidarity with its members, many of whom live and work in the Los Angeles area, underscoring the personal toll the fires have taken on the industry.
The wildfires in Los Angeles County have been particularly catastrophic, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions. Reports indicate that at least five lives have been lost, with many others suffering significant injuries. The Palisades Fire, one of the most destructive blazes in the region’s history, has already destroyed over 1,000 structures, leaving a profound impact on the community. This fire, which is burning near Malibu and Santa Monica, has been classified as the most destructive ever recorded in Los Angeles County, according to data from CalFire.
In addition to the changes in the nomination timeline, the Academy has also postponed other scheduled events. The International Feature Shortlist Screening, originally set for Wednesday night in Los Angeles, has been rescheduled for later in the week. Furthermore, the in-person Bake-Offs for the Los Angeles Sound Branch and the Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch, which were planned for January 11 in Los Angeles and New York City, have been canceled altogether.
The Academy has also announced that comedian Conan O’Brien will host the 2025 Oscars ceremony, bringing his unique brand of humor to the prestigious event. As the industry grapples with the aftermath of the wildfires, the Academy’s adjustments reflect a commitment to supporting its members and acknowledging the broader challenges faced by the community.
As the situation continues to evolve, the entertainment industry remains vigilant, with many stars and industry professionals expressing their concerns and support for those affected by the fires. The Academy’s decision to extend the voting window and adjust the Oscars schedule serves as a reminder of the resilience of the community in the face of adversity, as well as the importance of coming together during difficult times.
