Hollywood sign. Credit: Pexels, Soly Moses
The devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles have upset Hollywood’s awards season calendar, leading to the delay or cancellation of several high-profile events.
The renowned Oscar nominations, Critics’ Choice Awards, and various film premieres have been rescheduled as the region grapples with widespread destruction.
Oscar nominations postponed
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has delayed the announcement of the Oscar nominations by nearly a week, pushing the date to January 23, according to a joint statement by Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang. Originally set for January 17, the change aims to provide members more time to cast votes amid the chaos caused by the LA fires.
“We are all devastated by the impact of the fires and the profound losses experienced by so many in our community,” Kramer and Yang stated. They also highlighted the Academy’s commitment to unity during hardship, emphasising the importance of community and compassion in the face of adversity.
The 97th Academy Awards will still take place on March 2 at the Dolby Theatre, according to a report by Euronews.
Critics’ Choice Awards and BAFTA Tea Party affected
In a report by Sky News, The Critics’ Choice Awards, originally planned for January 12, have been postponed to January 26. Joey Berlin, Chief Executive of the Critics’ Choice Association, expressed solidarity with those affected by the fires, saying, “All our thoughts and prayers are with those battling the devastating fires and with all who have been affected.”
The BAFTA Tea Party, an annual prelude to the UK awards season hosted in LA, is cancelled. It was due to take place in the lavish Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills on January 11. Organisers said: “The safety of our colleagues, friends, and peers in Los Angeles remains our utmost priority.”
Numerous film premieres, including Robbie Williams’ biopic Better Man and Jennifer Lopez’s Unstoppable, are cancelled. The wildfires have also stalled production of the late-night show Jimmy Kimmel Live!.
While the wildfires have disrupted Hollywood’s plans, the resilience of the industry remains evident.
View all celebrity news.
