The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has redirected $250,000, originally earmarked for its Oscar Nominees Luncheon, to the Motion Picture & Television Fund (MPTF) to support Los Angeles wildfire relief efforts, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter. This donation brings the Academy’s contributions to $1 million, aiding citizens impacted by the devastating fires.
The catastrophic wildfires in Los Angeles have claimed dozens of lives, displaced thousands, and destroyed over 12,000 structures, including the homes of four Academy board members. In response, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences redirected $250,000 from its Oscar Nominees Luncheon to the Motion Picture & Television Fund for wildfire relief, bringing its total contributions to $1 million. This decision reflects the Academy’s commitment to supporting the local community, where nearly 60% of its members reside. While events like the Oscars Nominees Luncheon and the Scientific and Technical Awards have been postponed, the 97th Oscars, scheduled for March 2, remains on track.
Hollywood has come together to support wildfire relief efforts. The Producers Guild of America pledged $300,000 through the Entertainment Community Fund, and SAG-AFTRA donated $1 million to its foundation. Major stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Paris Hilton have also stepped in, with DiCaprio committing $1 million for urgent aid and Hilton’s nonprofit raising $800,000 for displaced families. The Academy’s donation highlights the entertainment industry’s collective efforts to assist a region devastated by one of the most destructive wildfires in its history.