The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences extended the Oscar nomination voting period because of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. Initially set to close on January 12, the voting will now end on January 14. As a result, the nominations announcement, originally planned for January 17, will now occur on January 19.

Academy Updates Members on New Dates

On Wednesday, the Academy's CEO, Bill Kramer, emailed members about the changes. He expressed sympathy for those affected by the fires, stating, "We want to offer our deepest condolences to those who have been impacted by the devastating fires across Southern California. So many of our members and industry colleagues live and work in the Los Angeles area, and we are thinking of you."

Other Oscar Events Postponed

Additionally, the email outlined more schedule adjustments. The International Feature Shortlist Screening, planned for Wednesday night in Los Angeles, has been delayed to later in the week. Moreover, the in-person Sound Branch and Makeup Artists and Hairstylists Branch Bake-Offs, scheduled for January 11 in Los Angeles and New York City, have been cancelled. Meanwhile, Conan O'Brien will host the 2025 Oscars on March 2.

Los Angeles Wildfires Cause Devastation

Meanwhile, the wildfires in Los Angeles County have caused significant destruction. Strong winds have fueled the fires, killing at least five people and injuring many others, according to CNN. Specifically, the Palisades Fire near Malibu and Santa Monica has destroyed about 1,000 structures. According to CalFire data, it is the most destructive fire in the county's history. This version uses active voice and transition words like "meanwhile" and "specifically" to improve clarity and flow.