The devastating wildfires in Los Angeles have put the 2025 Oscars ceremony in jeopardy.
Oscars 2025 on verge of being cancelled?
Time to fulfil late NDP ex-cabinet minister Ian Waddell’s dream to bring the show to B.C.? #bcpoli @SChandraHerbert https://t.co/nrch9jHKO5— Bob Mackin (@bobmackin) January 15, 2025
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is considering canceling the event for the first time in its 96-year history. An insider report reveals that the academy’s main concern is not appearing to celebrate while many Angelenos are dealing with heartbreak and loss.
Even if the fires subside soon, the city will be grappling with the aftermath for months. The academy has activated a secret “contingency strategy” that includes the possibility of canceling the ceremony. Esteemed figures such as Tom Hanks, Emma Stone, Meryl Streep, and Steven Spielberg are closely monitoring the situation.
"As of Monday, 64 Disney employees had lost their homes and hundreds more had been evacuated, including Robert A. Iger, the chief executive, and three members of his senior leadership team." @brooksbarnesNYT https://t.co/rlSjvisvD4?
— Chris Fenton (@TheDragonFeeder) January 14, 2025
If the Oscars do proceed, the traditionally extravagant goody bags will be scrapped. Previously valued at £140,000 ($171,000), these bags are now considered “in bad taste” given the current crisis.
Oscar decision hinges on wildfire impact
“With so many writers, producers, directors, their representatives as well as executives at every level impacted by the fires, it has been hard to focus on day-to-day.”
Hollywood Struggles To Carry On Amid LA Fire Devastation https://t.co/gniCDtnARL
— Chris Fenton (@TheDragonFeeder) January 14, 2025
The wildfires have destroyed the homes of many A-list celebrities, including Mandy Moore and Paris Hilton.
The announcement of the Oscar nominations has been delayed again to January 23. pic.twitter.com/5s4xj8eXw0
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) January 13, 2025
So far, 25 people have lost their lives, with the number expected to rise as emergency services continue their search through the rubble. The Academy has extended the nomination voting period to January 17 and will announce its nominees at a virtual event on January 23.
The decision on whether the 97th Oscars will proceed is expected to hinge on the progression and impact of the wildfires. The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) is also closely monitoring the situation and offering support to its members. Anna Higgs, Chair of BAFTA’s Film Committee, acknowledged that the evolving nature of the wildfires has had a direct impact on some BAFTA members, affecting their participation in the voting process.
Higgs extended her thoughts and best wishes to those affected, stating, “I have friends that have lost homes, so there’s a really direct relationship. It’s a close-knit community.”
BAFTA will continue to provide updates and assistance as needed, with the ceremony still a month away. The situation remains fluid, and the future of both the Oscars and BAFTAs in 2025 remains uncertain as the wildfires continue to ravage Los Angeles.