The ongoing wildfires in Southern California have wreaked havoc not only on homes but also on the entertainment industry that calls the region home. With flames from the Palisades Fire engulfing neighborhoods like Pacific Palisades, many well-known celebrities, including Billy Crystal and Milo Ventimiglia, have tragically lost their homes. The devastating fires have disrupted the start of Hollywood’s awards season, forcing the cancellation of star-studded events and causing delays in film production across Los Angeles.
Hollywood’s iconic red carpet events are among the first to feel the impact. The Los Angeles premiere of the film Unstoppable, as well as the premiere of One of Them Days, were canceled to avoid appearing insensitive to the ongoing disaster. Apple TV+ also decided to delay the premiere of Severance, with a statement expressing solidarity with those affected by the fires.
The fires’ timing has been particularly disruptive, as the entertainment world was gearing up for the Golden Globes and other significant awards shows. The American Film Institute, Critics Choice Awards, and even the Oscars have all announced delays, with the Academy postponing its nominations announcement until January 19 to offer respect to those impacted by the devastation.
Behind the glitz and glamour, the fires have affected a wide range of individuals in Hollywood, including those working behind the scenes—camera operators, makeup artists, writers, and crew members. As many as 30% of the country’s film and TV workers are based in Southern California, according to reports from Otis College of Art and Design.
In addition to event cancellations, TV production has also slowed. Shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Hacks halted filming temporarily, while other projects, such as Ted and Loot, were also paused due to safety concerns and air quality issues. The wildfires have left the industry with heightened anxiety, particularly as many productions have already begun leaving California for more affordable and less volatile filming locations abroad.
As the fires continue to rage, the entertainment industry is working to navigate both the emotional and professional challenges, with some hopeful relief provided by state government proposals to expand tax credits for film production to keep Hollywood competitive. However, for now, the uncertainty continues as Southern California battles one of its worst wildfire seasons on record.
