In light of the ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles, the Oscars have announced a change to their schedule. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has extended the nomination voting period and rescheduled some key events.
Voting Period Extended to January 17
Originally set to conclude on January 12, the voting period for the 97th Academy Awards has now been extended until January 17, 2025, at 5 p.m. PT. This adjustment was made in response to the ongoing challenges caused by the fires in the Los Angeles area, which have affected the industry and various events.
Nominations Announcement Set for January 23
The nominations for the 97th Oscars will now be announced on January 23, 2025, at 5:30 a.m. PT. The announcement will take place during a virtual event, with no in-person media coverage. Despite the changes, the Oscars ceremony will proceed as planned, scheduled for Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
Cancellations and Postponements
Along with the changes to the voting period and nominations announcement, the Academy also canceled the Oscar Nominees Luncheon, which was initially set for February 10, 2025. Additionally, the Scientific and Technical Awards, originally scheduled for February 18, will be postponed to a later, as-yet-undetermined date.
Statement from Academy CEO and President
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang released a joint statement expressing their deep sympathy for those affected by the fires. They stated, “We are all devastated by the impact of the fires and the profound losses experienced by so many in our community.” They emphasized the importance of extending the voting period to ensure that all members have the necessary time to participate under the challenging circumstances.
They also mentioned that the Academy had donated $750,000 to the Motion Picture & Television Fund to support those impacted by the fires.
Community Support and Resilience
In their statement, Kramer and Yang highlighted the resilience of the industry, saying, “The Academy has always been a unifying force within the film industry, and we are committed to standing together in the face of hardship.” They noted the importance of remaining sensitive to the infrastructure and lodging needs in the region during these difficult weeks, calling on the community to support relief efforts.
Impact on Film Industry Events
The fires have disrupted several Los Angeles-area premieres and other events, prompting numerous organizational adjustments. The Academy’s response underscores its commitment to the film community, and the statement concluded by emphasizing the Academy’s desire to honor the frontline workers who have been aiding with the fires.
Award Contenders in 2025
The 97th Oscars are expected to feature a wide array of critically acclaimed films, including Sean Baker’s dramedy “Anora”, Jon M. Chu’s “Wicked”, and Edward Berger’s “Conclave”. These films are among those that could be nominated for top awards.
