The 2025 glitz and glamour of the award season—the Golden Globes, the Oscars and the Grammys—have showcased the entertainment world’s most memorable moments. However, under the shadow of the devastating wildfires that have engulfed Los Angeles, California, what was once a time of celebration and luxury has turned into a call to action and an invitation for viewers to join in solidarity as a tribute to those affected. The stars will not only walk the red carpet, but will stand together in a collective effort to rebuild and heal.
“During the wildfires, the media provided nonstop coverage of the unfolding crisis. However, there hasn’t been much attention on it recently. I believe that at the upcoming award shows, many actors and actresses will use the platform to bring renewed awareness to what happened in Los Angeles and raise funds for the people who were affected in different parts of California by the wildfires,” Italian teacher Mrs. Caliendo said.
The Golden Globes typically take place in Beverly Hills, California, at the Beverly Hilton; the Oscars take place in Los Angeles, at the Crypto.com Arena and the Grammys also take place in Los Angeles at the Dolby Theater. As the fires raged, however, the questions that arise are whether these shows will go on and what will they entail? Previously, the award shows were forced to grapple with these same dilemmas. For instance, the 2020 Oscars followed an environmental theme, featuring eco-friendly clothing. These discussions became part of the narratives of the events, especially when it came to speeches and the actions of celebrities using their platform to raise awareness.
The 2020 Oscars stands as a precedent to how this year’s award shows have and will react to the Palisades fire, which started on January 7, 2025. These prestigious events had to adapt in ways that reflected the harsh realities of the fire, both logistically and emotionally. The Golden Globes took a more virtual approach. Traditionally, it was hosted at the Beverly Hilton, but air quality concerns led to the usual in-person event turning into a virtual meet. The Grammys, held earlier on February 2, was not physically relocated. However, many artists took to social media and their performances to raise awareness of the fires. Many celebrities called for donations, sponsorships, and greater environmental action, emphasizing a collective responsibility to lift and empower.
“I think it’s amazing that in such hard times like this, people, no matter what they do and who they are, are willingly helping each other which is so empowering. People of great influence using their platform to spread awareness doesn’t just make a difference but motivates others to do the same,” sophomore Evelyn Shi said.
The Oscars, which occurred on March 2, took place at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Like the Golden Globes, the Oscars was seen making an increased emphasis on the fires and an overall somber atmosphere. The opening of the Oscars featured a tribute video to Los Angeles acknowledging movies made in the city. The Oscars also called LA firefighters to the stage, where they received a standing ovation.
“I always watched the award shows because I’m a fan of media but find it really wonderful how they use this worldwide platform to provide aid and support to Current issues and events,” junior Allison Sanassi said.
As the Golden Globes, Oscars and Grammys take center stage this year, they carry with them a weight far heavier than the usual luxury of the red carpet. This year’s ceremonies remind fans that the true power of art lies not only in its ability to entertain but in its ability to inspire, heal and unite in times of crisis.
