Grammys and Oscars to Proceed Amid LA Fires

Originally Published: 13 JAN 25 14:30 ET

Updated: 13 JAN 25 15:14 ET

(CNN) — In Hollywood, the phrase "the show must go on" rings true this award season. On Monday, it was confirmed that both the Grammys and Oscars will continue as scheduled on February 2 and March 2, respectively. This decision comes as Los Angeles faces severe wildfires, prompting discussions among decision-makers regarding the best way to carry on with these prestigious events.

Some celebrities, including Jean Smart and Patricia Arquette, have suggested that these award shows should be cancelled or transformed into charitable events to raise funds for those affected by the fires.

This time of year typically sees glamorous events like the Grammys and Oscars, but the contrast between glittering performances and the harsh reality of displaced families makes this year's ceremonies particularly sensitive. These events play a significant role in providing income to many entertainment industry workers, from catering staff to crew members.

The Grammys will be the first major event to take place despite the wildfires. The show will aim to shine a light on first responders and will incorporate a fundraising aspect for wildfire relief.

Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, and Tammy Hurt, chair of the board of trustees, expressed in a letter, "In challenging times, music has the power to heal, comfort, and unite like nothing else. The Grammys will not only honor the creative achievements of our community but will also serve as a platform to reflect the spirit of resilience that characterizes this great city of Los Angeles."

The letter also assured that the ceremony would work closely with local authorities to prioritize public safety and the responsible use of resources while emphasizing its new goals: raising funds for wildfire relief and honoring the brave first responders.

Last week, the Recording Academy and its charitable organization, MusiCares, initiated the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort, starting with a $1 million donation to aid music professionals. As of now, more than $2 million in emergency aid has been distributed, and efforts are ongoing.

The Grammys will be the next major televised event, airing on February 2. Meanwhile, the Critics Choice Awards, which were supposed to be hosted by Chelsea Handler on January 12 in Santa Monica (near the Palisades fire area), have been postponed but are now expected to occur at the end of January.

The Oscars are also set to proceed on March 2, with an updated plan still to be determined. The Academy has extended voting through January 17, and the nominations announcement has been changed to January 23 and will be held virtually. Additionally, the Oscars nominees luncheon has been cancelled this year.

Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang stated, "We are all devastated by the impact of the fires and the profound losses experienced by so many in our community. 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 emphasized their commitment to celebrating the community's resilience and compassion while recognizing the frontline workers supporting fire relief efforts.

As reported last week, many crucial events during award season have been postponed or rescheduled. The AFI Awards luncheon, originally planned for January 10, will be rescheduled, and the BAFTA Tea Party has also been cancelled.

The Producers Guild Awards have delayed their nominations announcement for a second time due to concerns for those affected by the fires, and the Writers Guild Awards have postponed their nominations until further notice.

The Screen Actors Guild Awards are scheduled for February 23, with the actors' union already contributing $1 million to the SAG-AFTRA Foundation for fire relief.

Grammys, Oscars, Wildfires