Oscars 2025: Academy dismisses false reports of Oscars cancellation amid LA wildfires

Senior Academy sources clarified that there is no plan to cancel the ceremony and that no such advisory committee, reportedly involving celebrities like Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep, exist

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has firmly denied claims that the 97th Oscars ceremony, scheduled for March 2, is on the verge of cancellation. The rumors originated from a story published by U.K. tabloid The Sun, which alleged that “secret contingency plans” were in place to call off the event due to the ongoing Los Angeles wildfires. The Hollywood Reporter has confirmed these claims are entirely false.

Senior Academy sources clarified that there is no plan to cancel the ceremony and that no such advisory committee, reportedly involving celebrities like Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep, exists. The only body responsible for decisions regarding the Oscars is the Academy’s 55-person board of governors. While the wildfires have prompted some adjustments, such as extending the nominations voting period and postponing the Oscar Nominees Luncheon, the board has affirmed that the awards ceremony will proceed as planned.

The Academy did, however, acknowledge the impact of the wildfires, which have claimed 25 lives and destroyed numerous homes, including those of celebrities like Mandy Moore and Paris Hilton. Academy leadership is exploring ways to incorporate fire relief efforts into the ceremony to support affected communities.

Despite false reports, the Oscars’ longstanding tradition of perseverance remains unbroken. The ceremony was never canceled, even during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Academy insiders stress their commitment to continuing the event.

Changes to the event’s luxury goody bags, valued at $171,000, are reportedly under consideration, with items like spa treatments and Swiss Alps vacations deemed “in bad taste” amidst the crisis.

With nominees set to be announced on January 23, the Academy seems focused on hosting a dignified ceremony that balances the celebration with compassion for those affected by the ongoing wildfires.

Published - January 15, 2025 12:00 pm IST