The Academy Awards have been significantly impacted by the ongoing wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles. The announcement of this year’s Oscar nominations has been delayed once again, now set to occur on Thursday, January 23. In response to the crisis, the voting period for the Oscars has been extended to January 17. The decision to reschedule the announcement and extend the voting period comes as the fires, which have burned through over 27,000 acres in the region, continue to rage.
Over 150,000 people have been forced to evacuate, with the fires claiming at least five lives. The Academy Museum, multiple screenings, and the annual Oscars ‘bake-offs’ have also been disrupted.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang released a statement expressing their solidarity with those affected, noting the impact on the local film industry and wider community. “We are all devastated by the impact of the fires and the profound losses experienced by so many in our community,” they said. “Due to the still-active fires, we feel it is necessary to extend our voting period and move the date of our nominations announcement to allow additional time for our members.”
The Academy also addressed the need to adjust upcoming events, considering the logistical challenges posed by the fires. Several regional events, including the Los Angeles Sound Branch Bake-Off and the Shortlist screenings, have been canceled.
“We are determined to use this opportunity to celebrate our resilient and compassionate industry,” the statement continued, “and we look forward to honoring our frontline workers who have aided with the fires, recognizing those impacted, and encouraging people to join the Academy in supporting the relief efforts.”
The 97th Academy Awards, which are still scheduled to take place on March 3 at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, will be broadcast live on ITV1 and ITVX. The precise times of the ceremony are yet to be announced.
In the meantime, the Academy has expressed its deepest condolences to those affected by the wildfires, and its commitment to supporting the ongoing relief efforts.