The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has postponed the nomination announcement for the 97th Academy Awards and an extension of the voting period due to wildfires in Los Angeles.
Initially set for Friday, January 17, the Oscar nominations will be revealed on Sunday, January 19. The voting deadline has also been pushed from Sunday, January 12, to Tuesday, January 14.
In a letter to Academy members, Bill Kramer, CEO, expressed his sympathy to those impacted by the fires. He outlined the reasons for adjusting the nomination and voting schedules and highlighted the Academy’s commitment to supporting its members and industry partners during this challenging time.
The deadline for Oscar nomination voting has been extended two days due to the Southern California fires.
The nominations announcement, originally scheduled to be announced on Jan. 17, has moved to Jan. 19. https://t.co/uG7nBAnIkK pic.twitter.com/uJuDwub8T8
— Variety (@Variety) January 8, 2025
The wildfires have also necessitated the cancellation of in-person “bake-off” events for shortlisted candidates in the sound, hair makeup, and visual effects categories. To maintain the integrity of the nomination process, these critical evaluative events will be substituted with virtual discussions.
Due to the ongoing fires in Los Angeles, and out of an abundance of caution, the Academy Museum and Fanny's will be closed today. Please stay safe. pic.twitter.com/y3QcnxtApM
— Academy Museum of Motion Pictures (@AcademyMuseum) January 8, 2025
The entertainment industry has faced numerous postponements and cancellations of events and premieres due to the wildfires. The Academy’s decision to delay the Oscar nominations and extend the voting timeline mirrors the broader difficulties the community is experiencing amid this natural calamity.
Despite these setbacks, the 97th Oscars, hosted by Conan O’Brien, are scheduled for Sunday, March 2, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. This situation underscores the entertainment industry’s resilience and adaptability to adversity.