After devastating wildfires tore through Los Angeles, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that the 97th Academy Awards will go forward as planned on March 2nd. This decision has been met with some controversy, with calls for the ceremony to be cancelled due to the recent disasters. However, the Academy has reassured its members and the broader film community that it will do its part in helping with recovery efforts.
The Oscars, one of the most highly-anticipated and prestigious awards shows in the industry, will be held at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles. The show will be broadcast live by ABC at 7 p.m. Eastern/4 p.m. Pacific on March 2nd.
This year’s Oscars will be hosted by the renowned Conan O’Brien, who is no stranger to the entertainment world. O’Brien has expressed his excitement for the role and his quirky sense of humor is sure to add a unique touch to the show. “America demanded it and now it’s happening: Taco Bell’s new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. In other news, I’m hosting the Oscars,” O’Brien joked when the news was announced.
The devastating wildfires that swept through Los Angeles in early January have undoubtedly altered the show in many ways. The Academy was forced to postpone the announcement of nominations twice, but ultimately decided to keep the March 2nd date for the ceremony. The decision was made with the understanding that the show must go on, not only for its economic impact on the city but also as a symbol of resilience for the entire film community.
However, the Academy has made it clear that this year’s awards will also be a platform to acknowledge and honor those who fought bravely against the wildfires. The show will celebrate the work that unites us as a global film community and bring attention to the brave individuals who risked their lives to save others.
Despite the determination to go ahead with the ceremony, the fires have definitely affected the usual buzz and excitement surrounding Hollywood’s awards season. The Academy has cancelled its annual nominees’ luncheon, giving more importance to the actual ceremony itself.
For many involved in the Oscars, the wildfires have hit close to home. O’Brien’s assistant and podcast co-host, Sona Movsesian, lost her home in the fires. The late-night host himself was lucky enough to have his home survive, but his family has been unable to return to it. “I know so many people who lost their homes and I’m ridiculously lucky,” O’Brien shared with the Associated Press. “So, we want to make sure that the show reflects what’s happening and that we put a light on the right people in the right way.”
The Academy has also announced an impressive line-up of presenters for this year’s show. Joining the previously announced list are stars like Selena Gomez, Oprah Winfrey, Joe Alwyn, Goldie Hawn, Ben Stiller, Ana de Armas, Sterling K. Brown, Willem Dafoe, Lily-Rose Depp, and Connie Nielsen. They will be joining the likes of Halle Berry, Penelope Cruz, Elle Fanning, Whoopi Goldberg, Scarlett Johansson, and others to present awards to the deserving winners.
The Academy had initially planned to bring back the “fab five” style of presenting the acting awards, with five previous winners per category. However, they have reportedly abandoned those plans for this year’s ceremony. Nick Offerman will also be participating as the Oscars announcer, adding to the star-studded line-up of presenters.
The audience can also look forward to some memorable performances at this year’s ceremony. Unlike previous years, the original song nominees will not be performed. However, music will still be an integral part of the show. Doja Cat, LISA of Blackpink, Queen Latifah, and RAYE are set to deliver “showstopping performances celebrating the filmmaking community and some of its legends,” as announced by the producers. Wicked’s Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande will also be taking the stage to perform. The Los Angeles Master Chorale will also make an appearance.
As we eagerly wait to see who will take home the coveted Oscar statuettes this year, the nominees for the best picture are already creating a buzz. The 10 nominees include Anora, The Brutalist, A Complete Unknown, Conclave, Dune: Part 2, Emilia Perez, I’m Still Here
