The 2025 Oscars set for March 2 amid wildfires devastation
- The 97th Academy Awards will be held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre.
- The event will feature presenters including Halle Berry, Scarlett Johansson, and Emma Stone.
- Despite wildfires affecting Los Angeles, organizers vow to celebrate unity in the film community.
In the United States, the 97th Academy Awards are scheduled to take place on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, despite the recent devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The fires prompted significant concerns regarding the ceremony, leading some individuals to call for its cancellation. However, the organizers decided to proceed with the awards, attempting to create a show that celebrates unity within the global film community and acknowledges those who bravely fought against the wildfires. The awards will also be historic as they will be streamed live on Hulu for the first time, providing wider access to viewers. Halle Berry, Scarlett Johansson, Emma Stone, and Whoopi Goldberg are slated to present at the event, alongside many other prominent figures from the film industry. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has pledged support for its members and the broader film community affected by the wildfires. This year, the ceremony will have a different atmosphere, as it has been impacted by the ongoing recovery efforts and the somber reality of the wildfires, which have altered the usual celebratory tone of Hollywood's awards season. Additionally, it has been announced that the original song nominees will not be performed, marking a departure from the tradition of live musical performances. Nonetheless, music will still play a role in the ceremony, ensuring that the event remains entertaining while adapting to the current circumstances. With major films like 'Emilia Pérez,' which leads the nominations with thirteen, competing for recognition, the awards are expected to be a showcase of talent and resilience in the face of adversity. In addressing the impact of the wildfires, organizers aim to honor those who have been affected, turning the awards into a moment of reflection as well as celebration. The combination of streaming availability and the diverse lineup of presenters indicates a shift to a more inclusive and accessible format for this prestigious event, which is expected to reach audiences in over 200 territories around the world. As the date approaches, anticipation will build around the nominees and presenters, with fans eagerly looking forward to the show despite the challenges posed by recent events.