Reports suggest that the 97th Academy Awards, scheduled for March 2, 2025, might be canceled due to the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles. According to The Sun, an advisory committee, including prominent Hollywood stars like Tom Hanks, Emma Stone, and Steven Spielberg, is closely monitoring the situation. They are reportedly concerned about the optics of celebrating while the city struggles with devastation.
Delayed Announcements Amid Crisis
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recently postponed the Oscar nominations announcement from January 17 to January 23, citing the impact of the fires. In a joint statement, CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang expressed their heartbreak over the community's losses and emphasized the Academy’s commitment to supporting those affected.
Contradicting Reports
However, The Hollywood Reporter disputed the cancellation rumors, stating that no such advisory committee exists. According to their sources, the Academy and its broadcasting partner ABC have not discussed canceling the event. Instead, there is consensus that the ceremony should proceed, focusing on raising funds for fire relief efforts.
Historical Precedents
Delays in Oscar ceremonies are not unprecedented.In 1938, severe flooding in Los Angeles led to a one-week postponement, and in 1968, the event was delayed due to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Other instances include a 24-hour delay in 1981 after President Ronald Reagan was shot.
Wildfires’ Impact On Hollywood
The wildfires have claimed lives, destroyed homes, and left Hollywood stars like Mark Hamill, Anthony Hopkins, and Paris Hilton among the affected. The Academy faces the challenge of balancing its celebration of cinematic achievements with the need to address the ongoing crisis in Los Angeles. For now, the fate of the 97th Oscars remains uncertain, but updates are expected as the situation develops.
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