Flames and Fame: Oscars 2025 Nominations Delayed as LA Wildfires Disrupt Schedule

Los Angeles (The Uttam Hindu): In response to the devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended the Oscar nomination voting period. Initially scheduled to close on January 12 the voting deadline for nearly 10,000 Academy members has been pushed to January 14. The announcement of the nominations originally planned for January 16 will now take place on January 19, according to *Variety*.

Academy CEO Bill Kramer addressed the changes in an email to members on January 8 offering condolences to those affected by the wildfires. “We extend our deepest sympathies to everyone impacted by the devastating fires across Southern California. Many of our members and industry colleagues live and work in the Los Angeles area, and we are thinking of you during this difficult time,” the email read.

Event Adjustments

The email also announced additional scheduling changes. The International Feature Shortlist Screening originally set for January 10 in Los Angeles has been postponed. Additionally, the in-person Sound Branch Bake-Off and the Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch Bake-Offs scheduled for January 11 in Los Angeles and New York City have been canceled.

Despite the disruptions the 2025 Oscars ceremony hosted by Conan O’Brien remains scheduled for March 2.

Wildfire Impact

The ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles have already claimed at least five lives forced thousands to evacuate and caused widespread destruction. A new blaze, dubbed the "Sunset Fire," has erupted in the Hollywood Hills threatening iconic landmarks like the Hollywood sign and the Dolby Theatre where the Oscars are held annually.

The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that the Sunset Fire has grown to 20 acres and is burning dangerously close to Runyon Canyon and Wattles Park intensifying concerns for the safety of the area’s residents and its cultural landmarks.