The fires, which have caused at least 25 deaths and destroyed thousands of buildings in Los Angeles, have also shaken the entertainment industry. Many industry organizations have postponed the announcement of nominations for various film galas – including the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which is responsible for the Oscars.
In the British press, it was recently reported that the gala itself is at risk of being cancelled. However, Bill Kramer, CEO of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, is dismissing the rumors.
"We have made the carefully considered decision to continue with the 97th Oscars ceremony as planned on March 2," he says in a statement to the Los Angeles Times.
During the gala, special attention will be paid to those who have fought against the fires, he explains. But they also want to support the film industry and "use our global platform to highlight these critical moments in our history".
The Oscar nominations will be announced virtually on January 23.
