The 96th Academy Awards ceremony, scheduled for 2025, is facing potential cancellation due to the devastating wildfires sweeping through Los Angeles. This would mark the first-ever cancellation in the event’s history.
According to
The Sun, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is grappling
with whether to proceed with the ceremony as the city endures significant
destruction, widespread evacuations, and tragic loss of life. A source
revealed, "The board's main concern is not to appear insensitive while so
many people in Los Angeles are experiencing heartbreak and loss. Even if the
fires subside in the coming week, the city will still be dealing with the
aftermath for months."
While the
2021 Oscars were delayed by two months during the COVID-19 pandemic, outright
cancellation is rare, with the last contingency plan enacted following 9/11.
This year, the Academy, led by prominent figures such as Tom Hanks, Emma Stone,
Meryl Streep, and Steven Spielberg, is carefully monitoring the crisis and
considering a "contingency plan."
Changes
If the Event Proceeds
If the
Oscars move forward, they will likely forgo the traditional goody bags, which
are valued at £140,000 ($171,000). These luxury packages typically include
extravagant items such as Swiss Alps vacations, high-end beauty treatments,
jewelry, and £1,000 ($1,220) barbecue grills. Board members believe such lavish
gifts would be inappropriate under the current circumstances.
Impact on
Nominations and Voting
In response
to the wildfires, the Academy has extended the nomination voting period until
January 17, with nominees now set to be announced in a virtual event on January
23.
Wildfires’
Devastating Toll
The
wildfires have left a significant mark on the city, claiming 25 lives so far,
with rescue operations ongoing. Many celebrities, including Mandy Moore and
Paris Hilton, have lost their homes in the disaster.
As the city
copes with the aftermath, the focus remains on relief efforts and community
support, leaving the future of the Oscars uncertain.
