In a letter to its members on Wednesday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences confirmed that the 2025 Oscars ceremony will go on as planned on March 2nd, despite the devastating wildfires that have recently ravaged Los Angeles. However, the show will feature special accommodations to acknowledge the tragedy and honor the city’s resilience.
A Tribute to Los Angeles
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang assured members that the ceremony will “celebrate the work that unites us as a global film community and acknowledge those who fought so bravely against the wildfires.” They emphasized that the show will honor Los Angeles as the “city of dreams,” showcasing its beauty, strength, and century-long role as a beacon for filmmakers and creative visionaries.
We will reflect on the recent events while highlighting the strength, creativity, and optimism that defines Los Angeles and our industry.
– Academy leadership letter to members
Shift Away from Live Performances
In a significant change from previous years, the Academy announced it will move away from live musical performances during the broadcast. Typically, the lengthy show features live renditions of each nominated song, even though the performers are often not the actual nominated songwriters.
Instead, the 2025 ceremony will celebrate the songwriters’ artistry through “personal reflections from the teams who bring these songs to life.” The Academy promises this new approach will “uncover the stories and inspiration behind this year’s nominees” while still delivering powerful musical moments that connect film’s history to its future.
Proceeding Amid Tragedy
The wildfires, fueled by record drought and powerful Santa Ana winds, have killed at least 28 people, destroyed over 14,000 structures, and forced more than 300,000 to evacuate. The devastation has significantly disrupted Hollywood business and the awards season.
- The Critics Choice Awards delayed from January 12th to February 7th
- The Academy pushed back its voting window and nominations announcement
- The Grammys nearly postponed but decided to proceed with a “renewed sense of purpose”
Despite the turmoil, comedian Conan O’Brien remains set to host the Oscars. The Academy’s “Fab 5” segment, where individual film artists recognize nominees, will also return.
As we come together to celebrate excellence in our field, we will carry with us the memory of those lost and forever changed by these tragic events.
– Oscars host Conan O’Brien
The Academy’s commitment to moving forward with the Oscars while still thoughtfully honoring Los Angeles reflects the unifying, hopeful spirit of the film community. As the city begins to rebuild, the 2025 ceremony offers a chance for Hollywood to rally together, reflect on its history, and look optimistically toward its bright future, no matter what challenges may come.
