Stephen King Calls for Oscars to Be Canceled Over Wildfires

Stephen King is calling for the cancellation of the 97th annual Oscars due to the Los Angeles wildfires that have caused devastation and loss since January 7. He expressed his thoughts on Bluesky, stating that participating in the Oscars feels inappropriate amidst such tragedy, emphasizing that there's "no glitz" in the city right now. Although the Academy adjusted its 2025 schedule in response to the ongoing crisis, the ceremony is still set to proceed on March 2. The voting period was extended and the nominations announcement has been shifted to January 23. Both the Academy's CEO and president acknowledged the profound impact of the fires on the community, reaffirming their commitment to unity during these difficult times.

According to Stephen King, the Oscars should be canceled as a gesture of solidarity with the communities affected by the wildfires. He argues that the ceremony lacks its usual celebratory tone given the current situation in Los Angeles, where severe losses have occurred.

The 97th Academy Awards has a long history and usually showcases the year's best achievements in film. The ongoing wildfires are particularly poignant, as they highlight the intersection of art and real-world crisis. Given the extent of devastation, many in the entertainment industry are grappling with how to balance celebration with sensitivity to those impacted by the disasters. Stephen King's stance echoes a broader call for reflection within Hollywood during challenging times.