The Oscars extend voting period for the second time due to Los Angeles wildfires

The Oscars have extended their voting period due to the Los Angeles wildfires.

While originally scheduled to end on January 12, the Academy extended their voting period twice. The new date was planned for today, but was updated again to close on Friday at 5 p.m. PT. The Academy also cancelled their annual Oscar Nominees Luncheon set for February. Nominations will be announced on January 23 through a virtual event.

“We are all devastated by the impact of the fires and the profound losses experienced by so many in our community,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Janet Yang said in a joint statement. “The Academy has always been a unifying force within the film industry, and we are committed to standing together in the face of hardship.”

The fires began last Tuesday, and have continued to devastate areas like Pasadena and Santa Monica. As of today, at least 24 people have died. The Academy has announced a $750,000 donation to the Motion Picture & Television Fund, an organisation who previously worked to provide relief from the COVID-19 pandemic and Hollywood strikes.

“Our members always share how important it is for us to come together as a community, and we are determined to use this opportunity to celebrate our resilient and compassionate industry,” continued Kramer and Yang. “We also look forward to honoring our frontline workers who have aided with the fires, recognizing those impacted, and encouraging people to join the Academy in supporting the relief efforts. We will get through this together and bring a sense of healing to our global film community.”

Of the films recognized by the Academy, KNEECAP was shortlisted for Best International Feature and Best Original Song. The 97th Oscars ceremony was not postponed, and is scheduled for March 2 at the Dolby Theatre.