Wildfires Force Hollywood Shutdown, Cancel Award Shows

Raging wildfires in Southern California have forced Hollywood productions to shut down and postponed major award shows, including the Critics Choice Awards, as flames continue to devastate the region. The fires, which have burned over 5,000 acres and destroyed at least 1,000 structures, have prompted evacuations and disrupted the entertainment industry’s award season.

The Critics Choice Awards, originally scheduled for Sunday in Santa Monica, have been postponed to January 26 due to the ongoing crisis. “This unfolding tragedy has already had a profound impact on our community. All our thoughts and prayers are with those battling the devastating fires and with all who have been affected,” said Critics Choice Awards CEO Joey Berlin in a statement.

Other events, including the in-person nominations for the Screen Actors Guild Awards and the annual AFI Awards luncheon, have also been canceled or rescheduled. The BAFTA Tea Party, a key Oscars-season event, was called off as well.

Hollywood productions have been hit hard, with more than a dozen shows halting filming due to high winds, smoke, and dangerous fire conditions. Popular series such as “Grey's Anatomy,” “Hacks,” and “NCIS” have paused production, while late-night shows like ABC’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and CBS’s “After Midnight” have also ceased operations.

The wildfires have primarily affected the Pacific Palisades and surrounding areas, including Santa Monica, where evacuation orders have been issued. Universal Studios Hollywood and Universal CityWalk closed temporarily but are expected to reopen soon. Other theme parks, including Disneyland and Six Flags Magic Mountain, remain open.

Firefighters are working tirelessly to contain the blazes, which have caused widespread destruction and forced thousands to evacuate. The situation remains fluid, with authorities monitoring conditions closely.